Scott's Branch makes U.S. News and World Report Best Schools list for 3rd year in a row

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Scott's Branch High School discovered last week that it was named to the U.S. News and World Report Best Schools list for the third year in a row. "Scott's Branch has received this recognition for the third year in a row," said Principal Dr. Gwendolyn Harris, who said she was informed April 26 of the accolade by Clarendon School District 1 Superintendent Dr. Rose Wilder. U.S. News and World Report evaluated more than 28,000 schools in 50 states and the District of Columbia for its yearly listing. "To receive such an honor shows the quality of the overall school program that exists at Scott's Branch High School," Harris said in a release. At Scott's Branch High, the student body makeup includes 51 percent male and 49 percent female. The total minority enrollment is 98 percent. Schools are ranked in the U.S. News and World Report Best Schools list based on their performance on state-required tests and how well they prepare students for college. "For the third year in a row, Scott's Branch's performance shows that high standards, commitment and hard work pay off," Harris said. "This recognition is the result of students being challenged and encouraged by teachers, staff and administrators, and letting them know they have what it takes to compete globally." Dorothy Pleasant, a biology teacher who recently retired from the school, agreed. "It does not matter where you are or where you come from, when you are committed to students and you work as a team, these are the results," she said. English language arts teacher Jasmine Matterson agreed. "Our team is made up of people who are skilled and able to make a positive difference in every child's life, and that is what we are determined to do every day." Harris said the students are equally as proud of their school "and are challenged every day to strive for the best that life has to offer." "I cannot believe we were recognized globally as one of the best schools," said senior Sky Harvin. Senior Skylar Harvin agreed. "By the mere fact that we were, that speaks volumes about our students, teachers and administration." Harris said she's "extremely pleased and honored by receiving a Bronze Award for being one of the best schools in the nation." "I am excited for the students, because this lets them know that not only is the sky the limit, but the world is within their reach," she said. "What a phenomenal honor."