Four Greeley-Evans School District 6 schools have been named Centers of Excellence by the Colorado Department of Education.

Centennial Elementary School, Billie Martinez Elementary School, Brentwood Middle School and Prairie Heights Middle School were honored at a special ceremony today at the CSU Spur Complex in Denver. CDE honored 71 school districts and 346 schools from around the state with different awards recognizing student achievement and growth.

The Center of Excellence Award is given to schools with large populations of at-risk students that have demonstrated consistently high student academic growth. To be eligible for the award, at least 75 percent of a school’s student populations must be designated as at-risk and median growth percentiles in English language arts, math and English language proficiency must all meet or exceed 55.  In 2023, 10 schools earned this award; in 2024, 17 schools earned this award.

“These awards celebrate schools and districts that are achieving results through creativity, determination, and a relentless focus on students,” said Susana Córdova, Colorado Education Commissioner. “Their success reflects what can happen when educators stay committed to doing what work and keep pushing forward.”

District 6 Superintendent Dr. Deirdre Pilch said these awards represent hard work by each of these schools to focus on personalized learning, excellent instructional practices and supporting all students to achieve.

“We are proud to see these four schools recognized for their hard work and dedication,” Dr. Pilch said. “They are all committed to student achievement and providing opportunities for all students to learn and thrive.”