The National Association of ESEA State Program Administrators (NAESPA) is pleased to announce that Reuben Elementary School from Newberry, South Carolina has been named a National ESEA Distinguished School by the state education agency in South Carolina. Reuben Elementary School is one of up to 100 schools throughout the country that is being nationally recognized for exceptional student achievement in 2024.

The National Association of ESEA State Program Administrators (NAESPA)—formerly the National Title I Association—has been recognizing exemplary federally-funded schools through the National ESEA Distinguished Schools program since 1996. We celebrate the efforts of schools across the country making significant improvements in education. The program has annually acknowledged the success of hundreds of schools in one of three categories:

  • Category 1: Exceptional student performance and academic growth

  • Category 2: Closing the achievement gap between student groups 

  • Category 3: Excellence in serving special populations of students (e.g. homeless, migrant, English learners, etc.)

Mr. Alvin Pressley, Superintendent of the School District of Newberry County commends the administration, faculty, and staff for their hard work and dedication to their students.  “Mrs. Kelly Folk and her staff go above and beyond for every student that walks into Reuben.  This award is a reflection of the commitment they have for our students.” 

NAESPA implemented the National ESEA Distinguished Schools Program to spotlight schools that have effectively utilized their ESEA federal funds to improve educational outcomes for students. More information about all National ESEA Distinguished Schools is available on the NAESPA website: www.ESEAnetwork.org/ds

The 2024 National ESEA Distinguished Schools will be honored February 19-21, 2025, at the 2025 National ESEA Conference. www.ESEAnetwork.org/conference 

For more information:

  • About the National Association of ESEA State Program Administrators: M. Edward Cheeks, Ph.D., CEO, medward@ESEAnetwork.orgwww.ESEAnetwork.org

  • About individual schools: Individual State Department of Education Offices