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Hillcrest Elementary School’s dedication to literacy has been recognized by the Georgia Department of Education, earning the prestigious Literacy Leader award for its exceptional progress in improving student reading levels. This award celebrates Hillcrest’s achievements in 3rd Grade Gateway Growth and 4th Grade Growth, marking it as a leader in advancing literacy skills crucial to students' lifelong educational success.

The Georgia Department of Education’s Literacy Leader recognition acknowledges schools that demonstrate either high achievement or significant growth in reading proficiency, based on the 2023-2024 Georgia Milestones assessments.

Literacy Leader awards emphasize the importance of reading proficiency, especially in critical transition grades like third and sixth, where reading abilities strongly impact students’ future academic performance.

Hillcrest Elementary School was awarded based on the following criteria:

• 3rd Grade Gateway Growth: Hillcrest Elementary showed 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: Hillcrest Elementary further distinguished itself by meeting rigorous growth standards in 4th-grade reading proficiency, qualifying for additional recognition.

A total of 324 schools - meaning less than 14% statewide - were honored as Literacy Leaders this year. Hillcrest Elementary stands out among them, demonstrating its commitment to equipping students with the reading skills essential for academic success and personal growth.

State School Superintendent Richard Woods praised this year’s Literacy Leaders, saying, “I am so proud to announce this year’s Literacy Leader schools. These schools are moving the needle on literacy in our state – and, as a result, changing the lives of the students they serve. The ability to read opens the doors to lifelong learning – that’s why we remain laser-focused on literacy at the Georgia Department of Education and as a state. I am honored to recognize these schools, educators, students, families, and communities for their outstanding work.”

Superintendent Woods will be visiting Literacy Leader schools across Georgia this fall to personally recognize their achievements. And, we're looking forward to introducing him to our outstanding scholars!