Lynnville-Sully High School, Middle School rank No. 1 in Iowa Published: Friday, Jan. 20, 2017 10:47 a.m. CST • Updated: Friday, Jan. 20, 2017 3:20 p.m. CST

By Justin Jagler Newton Daily News

The Iowa Department of Education released the 2016 Iowa School Report Card last week, and the Lynnville-Sully Community School District received high honors. L-S was ranked the top high school and top middle school in the state.

The report card assigns ratings to each school in Iowa. Schools fall into one of the following categories: exceptional, high-performing, commendable, acceptable, needs improvement and priority. Both L-S high school and middle school received an exceptional rating. The elementary school also ranked high and was deemed commendable. The ratings are based on a variety of categories, such as proficiency, college and career-ready growth, graduation rate and attendance. Superintendent of Schools and High School Principal Shane Ehresman said the school’s rating is a remarkable accomplishment. “The superior state ratings reaffirm successful implementation of school improvement initiatives,” Ehresman said. “Character Counts and Multi-Tiered Systems of Supports (MTSS) are among several initiatives positively impacting student achievement.” Ehresman said data analysis and research-based practices drive the school’s day-to-day operations and long-range goals. He also said the staff, parents and community embrace high expectations for students. “Lynnville-Sully does a great job of examining school-wide data, as well as identifying and providing extra help to students who need additional academic support,” he said. The school district hosted a public assembly at the high school gym on Friday morning to recognize the achievements. Sen. Chaz Allen, D-Newton; Rep. Greg

Heartsill, R-Columbia; Rep. Wes Breckenridge, D-Newton; and Sen. Amy Sinclair, R-Allerton were guest speakers. Director of Iowa Department of Education Ryan Wise also spoke at the assembly. The Iowa Department of Education developed the report card system in response to a 2013 legislative requirement. According to the department, the Iowa School Report Card is an informational tool with no rewards or consequences at this time. Contact Justin Jagler at 641-792-3121 ext 6532 or [email protected]