Gastonia, N.C. – The N.C. Department of Public Instruction recognized North Gaston High School as one of only 14 schools in the state to significantly increase student performance.

North Gaston was designated a Turnaround School for dramatically improving scores on the state end-of-course tests.  Education leaders commended North Gaston’s staff, students, parents and administration for outstanding commitment to academic achievement.

North Gaston had 86.6 percent proficiency on the end-of course tests in 2010-2011, which is an increase of 30.8 points from 2006-2007 when 55.8 percent of students passed the tests.

“I am extremely proud of the students, staff, parents and administrators for their many academic accomplishments,” said Superintendent L. Reeves McGlohon.  “This is wonderful news for North Gaston and our community.”

Brent Boone, who served as principal from 2004 until 2011, and current principal Judy Moore accepted the Turnaround School award at a state recognition luncheon on October 18.  Boone was appointed executive director of high schools in July.

“We wanted to make North Gaston a better school – the teachers worked together and placed a strong emphasis on helping all students succeed,” said Boone.  “Now, the students are no longer thriving to pass, but to get the highest possible score on the tests.”

North Gaston’s success is attributed to a program that allows students to make-up assignments before and after school and on Saturdays.  The school also worked to increase student and community support for academics.

Five years ago, North Gaston was among the state’s 66 low-performing high schools.  Today, North Gaston ranks as a School of Distinction.