Hazel Valley Elementary School has been named a 2009 School of Distinction by Phi Delta Kappan and the Center for Educational Effectiveness.

The award recognizes schools across Washington for sustained improvement in student achievement as measured by seven years of WASL test scores in math and reading.

Hazel Valley is one of 51 elementary schools in the state - one of 21 in large school districts -- to receive the award.

Hazel Valley has improved significantly in its reading scores, but its improvements in math are especially impressive. Seven years ago, less than 30 percent of students met the state standard on the math WASL; last year, 60 percent of students met standard.

"This is only the beginning!" says Principal Johnathan Letcher. "The Hazel Valley staff, parents, and community are working to effect results, not simply effort."

Letcher credited his predecessor Annah Benitez for her service at Hazel Valley prior to his arrival there in September 2007.

Hazel Valley and other award winners will be honored at a Great Schools 2009 luncheon on September 26.