I'm thrilled they're finally getting that recognition. Twenty-six state schools were named Schools of Excellence, including another Putnam school, West Teays Elementary, according to Tony Smedley at the state Department of Education. Putnam County's Winfield Middle School, previously named a School of Excellence, will advance with three other secondary schools to compete for National Blue Ribbon School status. Despite its small size, Buffalo offers its students a variety of classes, from advanced chemistry to human physiology. Teachers have to prepare for more classes because of the Bison Block, but Vessey said they don't complain about the additional work.
Buffalo also offers after-school tutoring for elementary and secondary students.
High school students tutor each other and younger children under the guidance of Buffalo teachers. Buffalo High School recently started a music technology program where students use computers and synthesizers to create music, one of the first such programs in the state. To be named a School of Excellence, Buffalo High School had to meet certain criteria, such as good test scores and attendance, a rigorous curriculum and community involvement, Smedley said. Last year, Buffalo Elementary School received the honor. Over the last 10 years, several Putnam County schools received the honor, including Hurricane, Poca and Winfield high schools, Winfield Middle School, and Eastbrook, Conner Street, Hurricane Town, and Scott-Teays elementary schools.