St. Henry, Van Wert middle schools worth ‘watching'

VAN WERT — Seven years ago, Van Wert Middle School was deemed in continuous improvement by the state department of education. Today, it is excellent with distinction, the highest rating possible.

Seven years also mark the beginnings of improvements and the first time the school was named an “Ohio School to Watch.” It made it once again and officials say staff, students and the community will keep pushing to continue.

“Despite the fact that we are excellent with distinction, we are not done,” Principal Mark Bagley said. “We have a lot of things we need to improve on and get better.”

St. Henry Middle School in Mercer County also again earned the designation. The program identifies high-performing middle schools that are academically excellent, developmentally responsive, socially equitable and organizationally well structured.

“When it comes to being ready for a choice between getting a good job or going on to college after high school, there is no doubt that the middle school years are critical, yet often under emphasized in developing key student skills and learning habits,” said state Superintendent Stan Heffner.

Schools voluntarily subject themselves to the “Schools to Watch” extensive process and work. Bagley said going through the process just helps the school keep improving.

“You really break down your school and analyze it and really look at the things you are doing well and the things you can improve on,” he said. “Each and every year we do that as a staff. And we have a tremendous staff that works together as a team.”

The schools will be recognized at the Ohio Middle School Annual Conference next month, a May state board of education meeting and the National Schools to Watch Conference in June.

You can comment on this story at www.limaohio.com.