JCPS elementary school receives national recognition for student achievement

LOUSVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- Luhr Elementary School has been named one of the top schools in the country for academic improvement.

Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear joined JCPS superintendent Dr. Marty Pollio and for a celebration with teachers and students at the school early Monday.

The elementary school on Fegenbush Lane was recently named as a National ESEA (Elementary and Secondary Education Act) Distinguished School for showing improved student scores for two or more consecutive years. According to JCPS, Luhr Elementary is one of just 65 schools across the country to receive such recognition.

The Kentucky Department of Education nominated Luhr for the award after it qualified by:

Having a poverty rate of 35 percent or higher
Demonstrating high academic achievement or growth
Meeting or exceeding state-determined eligibility criteria

Students gathered in the cafeteria for an event to celebrate the honor.

"It is so awesome to be here to see such an incredible school," Pollio said as he addressed students.

Beshear said he believes the award is just the beginning for these students.

"I am so excited, but I'm also really hopeful for everything that you're going to do because I think this should just be one badge of honor you win," Beshear said. "I think this should just be one award in a whole bunch that you see as you keep going because I want to see every single one of you all succeed."

Beshear said he decided to attend the event after receiving a letter from 5th grader, Muhammad Jarjue, asking him to be a part of the celebration.

"How about we congratulate Muhammad on that introduction and that letter!" Beshear said as the crowd of students applauded.

JCPS officials said the percentage of 3rd, 4th, and 5th graders scoring proficient or distinguished in reading has risen 20% -- and more than 30% in math -- during the past three years at Luhr Elementary.

"Our staff and students have worked hard to maintain our positive academic trajectory since the pandemic, said Luhr Principal Sarah Williams, in a news release. "I am just so proud of our staff and students. For them to be recognized in this way is very special."

The National ESEA Distinguished Schools Program has been in place since 1996.

JCPS said two other schools in the district have received the honor in recent years: W.E.B. DuBois Academy in 2022, and Kenwood Elementary in 2021.

"The award is fantastic," Pollio said, "but seeing the pride on the kids' faces is invaluable."

A banner is now displayed in Luhr's cafeteria for students and staff to see each day.