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Some area high schools have a reason to pat themselves on the back.
U.S. News & World Report recently released its annual list of the best U.S. high schools for 2012, and 11 districts in Cambria and Somerset counties have made the grade.
Recognized in Cambria County were Blacklick Valley, Ferndale Area, Richland, Greater Johnstown, Conemaugh Valley and Portage Area high schools.
In Somerset County, Berlin Brothersvalley, Conemaugh Township Area, Rockwood Area, Shade-Central City and Windber Area high schools were recognized. Each school received a bronze award for academic excellence.
To determine the top schools, the publication evaluated nearly 22,000 public high schools.
Editors use a process that analyzes how schools are educating all of their students, then the minority and disadvantaged students and lastly the college-bound.
The publication also reviewed how the districts perform on statewide, advanced placement and international baccalaureate tests.
Based on these criteria, schools can receive a gold, silver or bronze award.
In Pennsylvania, 190 schools made the rankings.
Blacklick Valley High School received the honor for the first time.
“It’s an achievement at this level and an accolade to staff for the hard work they put in,” said Superintendent John Mastillo. “We are affecting our students and doing what we are supposed to do.”
He said receiving bronze-level recognition is a step in the right direction, and it’s essential that the district keeps moving forward.
“We need to keep doing what we’re doing, but by no means stop where we are at,” Mastillo said. “We have a lot of work to do, and based on expectations and society changes we need to make sure we are preparing students for college, a trade school or the work force.”
Bill Deal, principal of Berlin Brothersvalley High School, said it isn’t the first time the school has received the honor, but he noted that it’s always good to have an outside source offer validation.
“It underscores what we are trying to do here, and we’ve worked hard to do the right things for these kids,” he said.
He said it would be nice to reach silver status, which is something to work toward.
“There’s a big focus in the state on test scores. But we said we’re not going to worry about that as much and be more focused on what’s best for the kids and how we can help them succeed,” Deal said.
Deal said the award is a testament not only to students and staff, but to the Berlin community as well.
“Our teachers are exceptional and dedicated, the students work hard, and we have a great community who supports us,” he said.
To view the complete list of schools, visit www.usnews.com and click on U.S. News rankings.
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