Eighth Street Middle School has been recognized by Richard Woods, Georgia State School Superintendent, for outstanding student performance and growth in mathematics. The recognition was presented on Friday, January 16, as part of the 2024–2025 Math Leader Awards.
Eighth Street Middle School earned honors in the following categories:
8th Grade Gateway Growth
High School Achievement
High School Growth
The Math Leader Awards recognize schools across Georgia that demonstrate exceptional achievement, growth, or both in mathematics based on results from the 2024–2025 Georgia Milestones assessments and state end-of-course exams. The criteria emphasize gateway grades, which represent critical transition points in a student’s academic progression. In mathematics, fifth and eighth grades serve as gateway grades, with schools required to earn recognition at one of these levels in order to qualify for additional awards in other grade levels.
Gateway Growth awards are based on year-to-year increases in the percentage of students performing at or above grade level, with tiered growth expectations that require greater gains from schools starting at lower achievement levels. Eighth Street Middle School’s recognition for 8th Grade Gateway Growth reflects significant progress in student learning at a pivotal point as students prepare for the transition to high school mathematics coursework.
In addition, the school earned High School Achievement and High School Growth recognition based on student performance in high school mathematics courses, including results from state end-of-course assessments. These awards highlight both strong proficiency levels and meaningful academic growth among students.
“This recognition reflects the intentional focus on strong instruction, data-informed decision-making, and targeted student support taking place at Eighth Street Middle School,” said Jennifer Howell, Deputy Superintendent of Teaching and Learning. “Our teachers and school leaders are committed to ensuring students develop the mathematical understanding and problem-solving skills they need for success in high school and beyond.”
Schools are only eligible for additional Math Leader awards after first qualifying through a gateway growth or achievement designation, making Eighth Street Middle School’s multiple recognitions a testament to sustained success across grade levels.
Tift County Schools congratulates Eighth Street Middle School on this achievement and applauds the students, teachers, and staff whose dedication made this recognition possible.
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