The Governor's Office of Student Achievement this month recognized Liberty Middle School as one of the schools showing the greatest gains in test scores in the state.

Liberty Middle School was in the top percent of schools showing the best improvement on the state's Criterion-Referenced Competency Tests, earning a bronze award for greatest gains.

"Liberty teachers are outstanding with a record, now, well known by many," said Dr. Gary Mathews, superintendent of Newton County Schools. "Principal Vic Lee and staff are truly serving students. This is a recognition we all can be very proud of."

According to the Governor's Office of Student Achievement website, award-winning schools must have met certain criteria, which are based on the results of the most recent two years of CRCTs in grades one through eight in reading, English/language arts, math, social studies and science.

Schools are awarded on four levels - Platinum, Gold, Silver and Bronze - depending on their AYP status, the percentage of students exceeding standards on the assessment, and their standing in the state percentile of greatest gains.

Liberty Middle School earned a Bronze Award for Greatest Gains, meaning the school has made AYP, is not in Needs Improvement Status, and also had more than 20 percent of students exceeding standards. In addition, the school also placed in the 95th percentile of greatest gains in the state.

"Congratulations to these 370 schools for their commitment to hard work and high academic standards," said Governor Nathan Deal. "The principals and teachers at these schools are to be commended for maintaining a focus on providing every student with a world-class education."

"I am pleased to recognize these schools for their continued focus on student achievement," added Bonnie Holliday, Executive Director of the Governor's Office of Student Achievement. "Congratulations to the students at these schools for their accomplishments and to the staff for their ongoing commitment to learning."