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Rocky Mountain Elementary is among a dozen Colorado schools that have received the Governor’s Math Bright Spot Award, the state announced Tuesday.
The award is given to schools that have demonstrated “exceptional growth in math achievement” since 2019, a press release from Gov. Jared Polis’ office read.
Rocky Mountain Elementary School Principal James Garcia said the award is humbling, but also a testament to the work of the students, teachers and parents as the community continues to recover from the pandemic.
“It’s just amazing to be recognized for the hard work that we’re doing, but also to be able to assure the great success that we’ve all done collectively to support Rocky Mountain Elementary as a whole,” Garcia said.
Each school selected will receive $50,000 in federal Governor’s Emergency Education Relief funds for programs and services that aim to expand student resources, develop faculty and boost student success.
“That’s really our job in public education — just to change the trajectory of all of our students for the better, and support the parents along the way,” Garcia said.
Rocky Mountain Elementary School educators work hard to ensure all students are exposed to grade-level content, he explained.
Many students across the country fell behind in math during the pandemic, according to the Rennie Center, a national education think tank. Schools need to work hard with the students to make sure anyone who is behind will be given the tools to catch up, Garcia said.
“We, the professionals in education, paired with the parents’ and guardians’ support, we can fine tune where the students need that additional help, and then really get them to where they need to be,” he said.
Rocky Mountain Elementary School also won the Governor’s All School Bright Spot Award in November, which is given to schools that thrived despite pandemic challenges. The award also included $50,000 in federal Governor’s Emergency Education Relief funds for programs and services.
Rocky Mountain Elementary is the only school in the state to receive both awards this academic year.
“Really it just showcases the great work that is taking place at Rocky Mountain Elementary — it’s one of those schools that’s kind of under the radar, but there are a lot of great things that are going on, with a lot of great learning taking place,” Garcia said. “All students are welcome to continue this great journey and be one of our Rocky Rams moving forward.”
