Ann Arbor Public Schools named Academic State Champion

Ann Arbor Public Schools has been named to the Academic State Champs list published by Bridge Magazine.

Ann Arbor Public Schools was designated as the highest ranked large public school district in the state in this in-depth analysis of student achievement; only 69 school districts in the state received this recognition

To determine the Academic State Champs, Bridge partnered with Public Sector Consultants, Inc. to develop a value-added ranking system that measures a school’s test scores adjusted for student family income, which is often a predictor of academic achievement.

“It is truly a rewarding day in the Ann Arbor Public Schools as we celebrate this milestone recognition of progress in serving the needs of all our students,” said Dr. Jeanice K. Swift, Superintendent. “The measure of how students perform in relation to their socioeconomic realities is absolutely a critical indicator of how effective we are in AAPS in ensuring strong academic achievement for every student, regardless of their personal circumstances.”

Currently, according to the Ann Arbor Public School enrollment data, one in five students arrives to Ann Arbor Public Schools each day from a home impacted by poverty. AAPS continues to focus on reducing achievement disparities across groups of students. The Bridge Magazine Report indicates that the Ann Arbor Public Schools are achieving significant progress in ‘changing the game’ for students in relation to their socioeconomic situation.

“We are exceptionally proud of our competent and committed classroom teachers and staff who work very hard every day to maintain a strong focus on academic achievement across the school system,” added Dr. Swift. “We also value the partnership of our parents, partners, and community members in valuing a quality education experience for all students.”

AAPS commitment to provide a rich ‘whole child’ learning experience through exemplary arts and sciences, world languages, athletics and extra-curricular programs promotes high levels of student engagement in our schools.

Bridge Magazine is Michigan’s leading nonpartisan, nonprofit, in-depth news service. It is published by The Center for Michigan. Read more about Academic State Champs at www.bridgemi.com.

“Bridge is pleased once again to honor over-achieving school districts with the Academic State Champs award,” said John Bebow, president and CEO of The Center for Michigan, which publishes Bridge. “This year’s list of winners demonstrates that educators and students alike can overcome hurdles and prepare the future generation of Michigan workers for success. Congratulations to all of this year’s winners!”