Three Newton County schools, Fairview Theme School, Clements Theme School, and Heard-Mixon Elementary School, have been recognized by the Governor's Office of Student Achievement for being in the top percent of schools in the state with the greatest improvement on the Criterion Reference Competency Tests (CRCT).

"We're very proud of these accomplishments in student achievement," said Newton County School Superintendent Gary Mathews in a release.

Heard Mixon and Clements earned bronze awards for greatest gains, meaning both school have made AYP and are not in Needs Improvement Status. The schools had more than 20 percent of students exceeding standards and each school also placed in the 95th percentile of greatest gains in the state.

Fairview Theme School received a platinum award. Fairview has made AYP for three consecutive years, had more than 35 percent of students exceed standards on the CRCT and was in the 98th percentile of greatest gains in the state.

"The students and staff at these schools are to be commended for this significant achievement," said State School Superintendent Brad Bryant. "These high levels of achievement and improvement don't happen unless everyone is focused on the goal of providing a world?class education to every student."