Bryan County Schools recently got some good news from the state. The following is a BCS press release sent Thursday:

The Georgia Department of Education has named Bryan County Schools a Title I Distinguished District for 2013-2014, recognizing the school system for strong gains in the percent of economically disadvantaged students meeting or exceeding state standards ultimately reducing the achievement gap.

"We are honored to be selected as a Title I Distinguished District,” said Dr. Paul Brooksher, Bryan County Schools Superintendent. “It confirms the progress we've made as a system and further recognizes our efforts to close the achievement gap, something we are extremely proud of,” said Dr. Brad Anderson, Assistant Superintendent. “While we won't rest on our achievements, the board and I are honored the Georgia Department of Education has recognized the detailed work of our teachers and staff and the commitment of our parents and community partners who support our efforts,” said Dr. Paul Brooksher.

Title I is a federally-funded program which provides services to schools based on student economic need. The goal of Title I is to provide instructional services and activities that support students in meeting the state’s performance standards. A Title I school-wide program permits schools to use resources to upgrade the entire educational program of the school and to raise academic achievement for all the students. Lanier Primary School, Bryan County Elementary School and Bryan County Middle School are the Title I schools in the district. Georgia recognizes only four districts each year through the Title I Distinguished Districts program. Bryan County Schools was recognized as the “medium-sized” district and received $50,000 as a reward for reducing the achievement gap.