The A.R. Johnson School in Augusta has been Ranked the Best High School in Georgia by new state scoring system

The Georgia Department of Education has released a much anticipated tool for evaluating the effectiveness of every public school in Georgia.

The new grading system gives each school a score between 0 – 100. Overall the state averages are 83.4 for elementary schools, 81.4 for middle schools, and 72.6 for high schools.

Johnson Health Science and Engineering Magnet High School in Augusta was the highest scoring school in the state followed closely by the Gwinnett School of Mathematics, Science and Technology in Lawrenceville.

According to a Department of Education press release, A school and district’s overall score is made up of three major areas: Achievement (70 points possible), Progress (15 points possible) and Achievement Gap (15 points possible).

In addition to the three major areas, some schools receive “Challenge Points” to add to their score (up to 10 points). They receive these points if they have a significant number of Economically Disadvantaged students, English Learner students and Students with Disabilities meeting expectations. They also receive points for going beyond the targets of the CCRPI by challenging students to exceed expectations and participate in college and career readiness programs. Beginning in 2013-2014, schools will also receive ratings based on their financial efficiency and school climate, but these ratings will be for the public’s information only and will not factor into the school’s overall CCRPI score.

The Index supports the state’s core educational principles:

  • exemplary student achievement that prepares all for success in college and careers
  • effective teaching and leadership in all schools
  • innovative school improvement, particularly in low performing schools
  • reduction in the duplicative reporting requirements for local school districts

To see the rating for every public school in Georgia click HERE