Based on test scores last year, students at Mountain Middle School are among the top 10 percent of students academically in Colorado.
The state Board of Education will confirm the results of Transitional Colorado Assessment Program scores at its meeting Wednesday.
Only three years ago, Mountain Middle students ranked in the lowest 10 percent of youngsters academically in the state.
The school has met the challenge.
“In a nutshell, we focus on 21st century competencies,” Head of School Shane Voss said Tuesday. “We focus on critical thinking, problem solving, collaboration among students and communication skills.”
Voss said teachers at Mountain Middle distinguish themselves by taking students where they can’t take themselves.
“Teachers believe that all students are capable of learning,” Voss said. “They praise effort and perseverance over ability and intelligence.”
Most Mountain Middle students attain more than a year’s academic growth in a school year, Voss said.
daler@durangoherald,com
