LOCKNEY, TX – Lockney Junior High has achieved remarkable success in academic performance, earning the prestigious Distinction Award for Academic Growth. The recognition places the campus in the top quartile of schools across the state for measurable student progress.
Over the past year, the junior high implemented a focused approach on student growth, emphasizing the importance of every student improving from their previous year’s performance. This approach, often referred to as “band jumping,” set goals for students to move from one achievement level to the next—for example, from “approaches” to “meets.” While this is no small task, requiring at least a 10% improvement, Lockney students rose to the challenge.
The results speak for themselves: 60% of 8th graders, 27% of 7th graders, and 47% of 6th graders reached the set criteria, showcasing the hard work and determination of both students and staff. In just one year, the campus transformed its state accountability rating, moving from an F rating for three consecutive years to earning a solid B rating.
This turnaround has not gone unnoticed. Lockney Junior High will be recognized by Region 17 in September for its outstanding academic growth. The achievement highlights the dedication of teachers, paraprofessionals, and students who worked tirelessly to meet ambitious goals.
The honor is a testament to the commitment of the entire campus community and serves as a reminder that with persistence and teamwork, remarkable progress is possible.
