HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Three Hutchinson USD 308 schools were presented with Challenge Awards from the Confidence in Kansas Public Education Task Force Monday morning.

Hutchinson Middle Schoool 7, the Magnet School at Allen and Lincoln Elementary were given the awards in ceremonies at each school. Ben Jones with the state school board presented the awards.

“This award is a reflection of last year’s state assessment results on state reading and math assessments,” Jones said. Jones also noted that the challenges the district faces makes the awards special. “The amount of kids that go through USD 308 . . . and the challenges they face on a daily basis, from behavioral issues to income issues to free and reduced lunches, is a large number,” Jones said. “The work these teachers are doing is very applaudable and that’s the pleasure of presenting these awards.”

Overall, more than 170 Kansas schools received 2018 Challenge Awards. The awards recognize Kansas schools that are making a notable difference in student achievement despite facing significant challenges in their school population. Since its inception in 2002, more than 1,500 awards have been presented to schools across the state.

Photos courtesy of USD 308.