Two Lake Washington School District schools were recently “Schools of Distinction” by the Center for Educational Effectiveness.

Discovery Community School and Kirkland Middle School were among 99 schools statewide that have shown a five-year improvement trend on the state’s reading/math index test scores for students.

These awards are presented by the Center for Educational Effectiveness, the Association of Educational Service Districts, the Association of Washington School Principals, Washington Association of School Administrators and Washington State School Directors’ Association.

The Schools of Distinction each had to show students meeting the state standard for their grade level at a minimum, as well as increasing improvement in the reading/math index of student test scores over the past five years.

“All of our schools work on continuous improvement, and the data shows that these schools have worked hard toward their goal,” said Traci Pierce, superintendent. “I’m very proud of these schools for their sustained improvement for student success.”

To be considered, schools had to perform at least at the state average in reading and math assessments, as measured on the spring 2013 Measures of Student Progress. Schools had to have scores in at least two of three grade levels (grades three, four and five for elementary schools and grades six, seven and eight for middle schools and junior highs).

Schools were evaluated on combined reading and math improvement from 2008 to 2013 based on state assessments. The top 5 percent of public schools statewide subsequently are recognized with the School of Distinction award.

Discovery Community School is a Lake Washington School District Choice school that is housed at Sandburg Elementary School in Kirkland. Discovery provides hands-on, interactive learning experiences to three multi-age classrooms, with a total enrollment of 73 students.

Kirkland Middle School, located in Kirkland, serves nearly 600 students. It was previously recognized in 2010 by the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction and State Board of Education for overall excellence in student learning. This is the second year that Kirkland Middle School is being recognized with this award.

The Schools of Distinction awards will be presented at six regional awards ceremonies.