Len Lastinger Elementary School has been recognized as a 2024–2025 Literacy Leader by Richard Woods, Georgia State School Superintendent of Schools. The recognition was presented on Friday, January 16, honoring the school’s significant student growth in literacy.
Len Lastinger Elementary earned Gateway Growth recognition for 3rd Grade Literacy as well as Growth recognition for 4th Grade Literacy, reflecting strong gains in reading proficiency based on the 2024–2025 Georgia Milestones assessments.
The Literacy Leader Awards recognize schools across Georgia for excellence in both achievement and growth in reading. Third and sixth grades are designated as “gateway grades,” as they represent critical transition points in a student’s literacy development. To be eligible for recognition in additional grade levels, schools must first earn a Gateway Growth or Gateway Achievement award.
Gateway Growth awards are based on year-to-year increases in the percentage of students reading at or above grade level, with tiered growth targets that vary depending on a school’s starting percentage. Len Lastinger Elementary’s recognition reflects meaningful progress in helping students strengthen foundational reading skills and continue that momentum into upper elementary grades.
“Being recognized as a Literacy Leader speaks to the intentional work happening every day in classrooms,” district leaders shared. “This achievement highlights the dedication of our teachers, the commitment of our students, and the strong partnership with families to ensure literacy success.”
The additional recognition for 4th Grade Literacy Growth was made possible because the school first qualified for Gateway Growth at the 3rd grade level. These awards further emphasize the school’s sustained focus on literacy instruction and continuous improvement beyond the gateway year.
Tift County Schools congratulates Len Lastinger Elementary on this accomplishment and applauds the school community for its continued commitment to student growth and academic excellence.
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