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Two MCPSS schools have been recognized as CLAS Schools of Distinction by the Council for Leaders in Alabama Schools – Leinkauf Elementary School and Lott Middle School.
Leinkauf is being recognized for its Book Tasting and Child Nutrition Day, during which students are encouraged to “taste” different genres of books as well as recipes from local chefs.
Lott is being recognized for its Agriculture Program, which is paired with the school’s 4H Garden Club. Students get time outside growing plants in the school’s greenhouse, and teachers tie in classroom lessons ranging from science to research to literature.
“I would like to congratulate Leinkauf and Lott for receiving this prestigious recognition from CLAS,” said MCPSS Superintendent Chresal D. Threadgill. “It is a testament to the work they are doing to make learning relevant to their students each and every day.”
Statewide, 32 schools were named CLAS Schools of Distinction. They will be recognized at an awards luncheon in May.
"We are always excited that our students can have hands-on learning experiences that will have an impact on future career choices,” said Lott Middle School Principal Jason Golden. “Our Agriculture Program prepares our students for success in the high school Agriculture and Manufacturing pathway when they reach high school. It also allows us to give back to our community by growing and providing healthy vegetable choices, which promotes a healthy lifestyle."
Leinkauf Elementary School Principal Hope Belle-Payne said she was extremely excited to hear that her school has received the recognition. “It showcases everything that we do here at Leinkauf,” she said. “Being in the company of other schools that have been recognized for the wonderful things they do is a great news.”
The CLAS Banner School program was created in 2001 to recognize schools in Alabama that showcase outstanding programs and services to students. A total of 240 schools statewide applied for the recognition this year. From the 32 CLAS Schools of Distinction, 8 will be named CLAS Banner Schools.
Over the past decade, CLAS has recognized MCPSS schools as Banner Schools 11 times. They are: E.R. Dickson, Hankins, Alma Bryant, Mary B. Austin, Booth, O’Rourke, Davidson (twice), Robbins, Council and B.C. Rain.
“Congratulations to these wonderful Alabama public schools. The CLAS Schools of Distinction provide excellent examples of the significant learning opportunities taking place in public education in Alabama. Further, the stakeholders at every School of Distinction are to be commended for striving for excellence daily,” comments Dr. Vic Wilson, executive director of the Council for Leaders in Alabama Schools (CLAS).