R.A. Long High School in the Longview School District has been named a Washington state School of Distinction for its sustained improvement in graduation rate over the past five years.

The school is in the top 5 percent of high schools—21 schools—receiving the honor. Sixty-nine elementary and middle/junior high schools are also receiving School of Distinction awards, for improvements in reading and math over a five-year period.

“Any progress R.A. Long has made in this area is the result of the combined efforts of teachers, support staff, parents and students—along with the support of the broader community,” said R.A. Long principal Rich Reeves. “Education is a team effort and should be celebrated by all of our stakeholders.”

R.A. Long will celebrate its award and receive a banner commemorating its School of Distinction honor at a future date.

Five other schools in the ESD 112 region were also given the award:

  • Captain Strong Primary, Battle Ground (2-time award winner)
  • Castle Rock Elementary, Castle Rock
  • Green Mountain School, Green Mountain (5-time award winner)
  • Trout Lake School, Trout Lake (2-time award winner)
  • Cape Horn Skye Elementary, Washougal (4-time award winner)

The School of Distinction award is given by the Center for Educational Effectiveness in partnership with the Association of Educational Service Districts, the Association of Washington School Principals, the Washington Association of School Administrators and the Washington Association of Supervision and Curriculum Development.