Franklin Elementary is one of six schools in the Educational Service District 112 region and among 94 schools in the state that recently were named Schools of Distinction. The honor is given to schools that have demonstrated sustained improvement in English language arts and math over a five-year period. Schools of Distinction are among the 5 percent most-improved schools in the state of Washington.

Franklin’s achievements are the result of several efforts. All teachers work together to create an environment where students can have meaningful learning experiences and succeed. The school is home to the Mandarin Immersion Program, and awareness and respect of different cultures make Franklin a very special place. In addition, strong parent support and a bevy of extracurricular activities provide opportunities for families to be engaged in the school.

Said Education Service District 112 Superintendent Tim Merlino, “I want to congratulate Principal Woody Howard, his staff and his students for their outstanding improvement and student achievement. … We’re proud that Ben Franklin is one of the recipients.”

“Ben Franklin Elementary’s improvement reflects outstanding progress toward the district’s mission, resulting in exceptional gains in student knowledge, skill and competence,” added Board Vice President Michelle Giovannozzi. “This accomplishment also reflects dedication to and progress toward core principles of Vancouver Public Schools. … Thank you for your hard work, dedication and commitment to our students and their learning.”

The School of Distinction award, now in its 10th year, is given by the Center for Educational Effectiveness in partnership with the Association of Educational Service Districts, the Association of Washington School Principals, Washington Association of School Administrators, Washington State School Directors’ Association and Washington State Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development.

(Pictured above, from left: ESD 112 Superintendent Tim Merlino, Franklin Elementary Principal Woody Howard and Board Vice President Michelle Giovannozzi)