The Lafayette County school district received a grade of “A” this year for the first time in the past five years. Lafayette Elementary School received an “A” while the high school received a “B.” This grade is calculated by adding points earned from performance in reading, math, writing and science. Federally funded schools are rated based on whether they meet state standards in these academic areas or are making appropriate gains.

The state uses these ratings, or grades, to determine which schools are making Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP). AYP — part of the federal No Child Left Behind Act — determines how much practical and financial support is needed to help schools reach federal and state proficiency goals.

Schools with a high number of low-income student and those that receive a state grade of “D” or “F” receive funding and resources to help improve those students’ education. Schools that receive an “A” or improve by one performance grade from the year before, are eligible to earn $75 per student. Those that receive “B” and “C” grades receive state funding and support based on determined amounts necessary to help raise scores, according to the Florida Department of Education.

According to Superintendent Tom Lashley, the community owes these high ratings to hard work by teachers, as well as parents, staff and students.