Glencliff High School, one of the most state’s most diverse high schools, has earned a spot as a national model of excellence. The school has been named the 2011 Community Schools Awards for Excellence by the Coalition for Community Schools in Washington, D.C. Only three schools in the U.S. received this award:  One from elementary grades, one from middle grades, and one at the high school level.

The Coalition for Community Schools, housed at the Institute for Educational Leadership, is an alliance of national, state and local organizations in K-16 education, youth development, community planning and development, family support, health and human services, government and philanthropy as well as national, state and local community school networks. The award, given to Glencliff High School in acknowledgement of their unique and grassroots community school initiative, will raise the profile of Glencliff as a national community school model. 

“Glencliff High School was selected to receive this award because of its dedication to engaging the school with families and the community, its success in educating all young people to high standards and the commitment and innovative thinking of its staff,” said Martin J. Blank, President, Institute for Educational Leadership, and Director, Coalition for Community Schools.  “Glencliff integrates academics with supports and opportunities for its young people in unique ways from which others can learn.”

“This award is a culmination of four years of hard work on the part of staff, students, partners, and community members,” said Tony Majors, Executive Principal of Glencliff High School. “Our community school began as a small health initiative in 2008, and has grown to into a complex and far-reaching model that includes partners from across the city. We are thankful for the support of the Glencliff community and recognize that this award would not have happened without the dedication of our staff and partners.”

June 16, Glencliff will accept the award in Washington, D.C., at the U.S. Capitol. The team attending will include administrators and staff from Glencliff, as well as staff from three different organizations that partner with Glencliff, including the YMCA, Monroe Carell Children’s Hospital, and United Neighborhood Health Service. After the award ceremony, the Glencliff team will visit Tennessee’s legislative representatives in the House and the Senate in celebration of Community School Advocacy Day.