Two Wiregrass Schools Win National Honor

We are so proud of our National Blue Ribbon Schools, Heard Magnet School and Beverlye Magnet School! Both schools are located in Dothan and are part of Dothan City Schools.

Principal Maria Johnson, Superintendent Tim Wilder, Principal Peggy Maddox
Picture taken from www.nationalblueribonschools.ed.gov

Beverlye Magnet School, home of the Wildcats, is located in Dothan City Schools and serves grades six through eight.  They strive for excellence in all that they do and focus on giving students voice and choice in project-based learning and through rigorous writing assignments. “… Beverlye offers a variety of genres for students to find their true passion.  For example, awards have been earned in math, science, engineering, spelling, and band. In addition, Beverlye’s choral music, band, and theater programs provide show-stopping performances each year. Technology is front and center at Beverlye…. Likewise, Advisory/Clubs provide a broad range of opportunities for students to explore relationships and hobbies. Chess, Baking, Improv, Debate, Fitness, CSI Forensics, and Up-Scaling Furniture are but a few of the choices that students may rotate into each nine weeks. Beverlye’s success is primarily due to the commitment of administrators and faculty to participate in ongoing professional development. Over the past ten years, Beverlye’s faculty has received intensive training from the Alabama Reading Initiative and the Southern Regional Education Board. This intensive, sustainable professional development has grown a faculty that relies on best practices to create a positive, rich learning environment for all students.”

Picture taken from Beverlye PTO Facebook Page

The faculty at Heard Magnet School works diligently in their pursuit of excellence. This school ranks among the top performers in both the system and state. Heard was bestowed with the distinguished title of Torchbearer School for two consecutive years based on high achievement with low socioeconomic students. A project based curriculum is used to engage and enhance learning styles. Instruction is rigorous; teachers promote critical thinking using prior knowledge to solve problems in real-world, unpredictable situations. Spanish, Technology, and Music classes are taught by teachers with expertise in their fields. Physical Education classes include dance lessons sponsored by a local studio. An area musician conducts weekly violin lessons. Students participate in robotics, music ensembles, and a volunteer art program. Art teachers have introduced new styles and mediums each year. Projects relate to the specific academic content areas. Finished pieces are displayed in Heard’s gallery, and selected pieces are showcased at the Wiregrass Museum of Art. These activities give each child a well-rounded education preparing them for future success. 

Picture taken from www.nationalblueribonschools.ed.gov

To read the complete bio and school application, visit: 

http://nationalblueribbonschools.ed.gov/awardwinners/