WKU News

The Carol Martin Gatton Academy of Mathematics and Science in Kentucky at WKU has been named to The Washington Post’s list of top-performing schools with elite students for the eighth consecutive year.

Since 1998, educational columnist Jay Mathews has ranked Washington-area public high schools using the Challenge Index, his measure of how effectively a school prepares its students for college. The Washington Post has since expanded its research and rankings to high schools across the United States.

The Challenge Index is designed to recognize schools that challenge average students. Twenty-seven top-performing schools including The Gatton Academy were excluded from the regular list because, as the newspaper states, “their admissions and standardized test scores indicate they have few or no average students.” Instead, these schools are named to the top performing schools with elite students list.

Once again, The Gatton Academy found itself among the nation’s 27 most distinguished public high schools. Schools such as the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy, North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics, and Thomas Jefferson High School make perennial appearances on the top-performing schools with elite students list.

“We are excited to be recognized among the top performing elite public high schools in America,” said Dr. Lynette Breedlove, Director of The Gatton Academy.  “This designation highlights Kentucky’s commitment to exceptional education. The Gatton Academy’s success demonstrates what outstanding students are capable of achieving when provided the opportunity. Academy students’ opportunities began in their home county and independent schools districts and have continued through our partnership with WKU. Everyone working together to support high ability and highly motived students makes a powerful difference for our students and our state.”

The Washington Post’s recognition highlighted the strategic partnership between The Gatton Academy and WKU. Gatton Academy students earn more than 60 hours of college credit from WKU during their four semesters in the program while also earning a high school diploma.

“Being recognized as a top performing school with elite students is an honor for The Gatton Academy,” said Dr. Julia Roberts, Executive Director of The Gatton Academy and Mahurin Professor of Gifted Education. “WKU faculty, the staff at The Gatton Academy, and teachers at the home high schools deserve the credit for this outstanding recognition.”