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Hillcrest Elementary School received a special visit from State School Superintendent Richard Woods on March 18th, as he presented students and staff with a Literacy Leader banner in recognition of their remarkable growth in literacy on the Georgia Milestones assessment.

The Georgia Department of Education's Literacy Leader Initiative honors schools demonstrating exceptional progress in reading proficiency. This recognition highlights the dedication of teachers and school leaders who work tirelessly to support students' literacy development. The initiative began with literacy banners for 3rd Grade, celebrating schools that have shown significant achievement or improvement in reading skills.

Hillcrest Elementary has distinguished itself through its commitment to literacy excellence, earning recognition for 3rd Grade Gateway Growth and 4th Grade Growth. This achievement marks Hillcrest as a leader in advancing literacy, equipping students with critical reading skills essential for lifelong success.

Principal Sherrell Edmond expressed excitement and gratitude for receiving the Literacy Leader banner, emphasizing that it was a collective effort by the school’s leadership team, teachers, and students.

“This recognition is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our leadership team, who collected data, analyzed progress, and developed daily strategies to help our students succeed,” said Edmond.

Hillcrest Elementary was honored based on the following Georgia Milestones criteria:

3rd Grade Gateway Growth: Substantial improvement in the percentage of 3rd Grade students reading at or above grade level, meeting or exceeding growth targets set by the Georgia Milestones Reading Status indicators.

4th Grade Growth: Meeting rigorous growth standards in 4th Grade reading proficiency, qualifying for additional recognition.

Hillcrest Elementary is one of just 324 schools statewide – representing less than 14% of Georgia schools – to receive the Literacy Leader award this year.

During the visit, Superintendent Woods praised Hillcrest’s commitment to literacy, adding “Great job! The literacy banner - especially for 4th Grade - is the hardest to get. So, the fact that you earned one for 3rd and 4th Grade is amazing.”

Before leaving, Woods not only challenged Hillcrest Elementary to ensure his return next year but also presented them with another milestone opportunity—the John Hancock Banner which will be awarded to schools where 90% of 3rd Graders can write their names in cursive.

“It’s my intent to be back next year,” Woods said, encouraging the faculty and staff to work toward earning even more Literacy Leader banners as well as challenging them to earn the John Hancock Banner by the end of the school year.

As Hillcrest Elementary continues its journey in literacy excellence, today’s recognition serves as a proud moment for the school and a testament to the power of dedication, collaboration, and student achievement.