Bush Elementary School staff pictured in front of the building. Bush School was recently named a Recognition School from the New York State Department of Education.

Bush Elementary School’s supportive culture has been given a big rewards – the school was recently named as a Recognition School from the New York State Department of Education – only one of 582 in the state.

“The Bush Elementary School community focuses on what students CAN do, not on what they CAN’T,” said JPS Director of Schools Tina Sandstrom. “They don’t dwell on the challenges that the students may face, but rather, the staff acknowledges those challenges and moves to meeting the needs of the children. Bush Elementary School exemplifies the characteristics of a supportive culture of a high performing/high poverty school. We are so proud of the staff, students and families who all deserve praise for receiving this state award.”

Under the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) plan, Recognition Schools are those with high academic achievement and strong progress that also perform acceptably for all subgroups for which they are accountable. This year’s designees represent only 13 percent of New York State public schools.

“We are so proud of Bush Elementary School,” said JPS Superintendent Dr. Bret Apthorpe. “Recognition schools are the highest performing and rapidly improving schools across the state. Our Bush Elementary School teachers, administrators, staff and parents have demonstrated a relentless commitment to their school, without whom this growth would not have been possible.”

To be identified as a Recognition School, a school must have met very stringent requirements and receives a certificate of recognition from the Commissioner. Of the identified schools, 232 are New York City public schools; 313 are public schools in the rest of the state; and 37 are public charter schools, of which 35 are located in New York City.

“Sayings like ‘Building relationships’ and ‘Having high expectations’ at Bush School are not cliches — this is who we are and what we do on a daily basis,” said Bush Elementary Principal Dan Bracey. “Our staff gives up their personal and family time to grade papers, prepare lessons and attend after school activities. We have a wonderful connection with parents, families and outside agencies, which all help to develop the whole child. For all the staff at C.V. Bush Elementary School, working here is not a profession — it is calling — which we all love!”