Holl explained that individual school awards are based on a school's self-improvement relative to its own past achievement and effort levels. It is not based, however, on a comparison with the performance of other schools.
Effort is measured by a school's improvement in pupil attendance.
All recipients must ensure that at least 50 percent of their award is spent on improving instructional programs, including professional development for teachers. Up to 25 percent may be spent on teacher awards. They show that our school districts are achieving significant academic goals, and doing their best to keep children in school. Holl said vocational-technical schools are also eligible for awards based on improvement in the placement of their graduates in jobs related to their training. These results are something for which many schools in Montgomery County can be very proud.