Farnsworth Elementary: National Title I Distinguished School
 

The opening ceremonies at the National Title I Conference began with much fanfare and excitement as 71 schools from 37 states marched into the conference hall behind a fantastic high school marching band and their state flags. Farnsworth was one of two Minnesota schools to receive the honor of National Title I Distinguished school this year. The other school, Highland Elementary, is in Columbia Heights, Minnesota.

Several Farnsworth teachers, principal Troy Vincent, a Farnsworth parent, Sherry Carlstrom and Matthew Mohs were those honored to represent the school at the ceremony. All were dressed in Farnsworth Aerospace jumpsuits, which really caught everyone's attention.

The schools honored at the National Title I Conference in Nashville Tennessee were selected by their states as examples of superior Title I school programs. Since 1996,

the National Association of State Title I Directors has brought national recognition and attention to these schools.

What makes these success stories especially powerful are the documented student achievement gains that have resulted from the school's innovations. The distinguished schools identified shared the following strengths:

• Opportunity for all children to meet proficient and advanced levels of performance.
• Strong professional development.
• Coordination with other programs' curriculum and instruction to support achievement of high standards.
• Partnerships among schools, parents and communities.

Dr. Troy Vincent was also asked to present as part of a panel on Race, Ethnicity or Gender Diversity. Troy's impressive presentation had the audience clapping and asking for more.