Bridgeport High School was one of three high schools – and one of just 18 at any level – that was recognized as a High Performing Reward School for 2014-15, according to the West Virginia Department of Education.  The honor is based on WESTEST2 results and as the numbers above show is not an easy trick to accomplish.

 

“Once again, I’m pleased nearly to the point of being speechless at how proud I am for our students and our teachers,” said BHS Principal Mark DeFazio. “What’s really important is that I know our students want to accomplish great things academically and this is proof they were able to accomplish what they set out to accomplish.”

 

Bridgeport frequently is honored for its academic success. The Johnson Avenue school was joined by George Washington High School and East Hardy High School as the only schools among 120-plus in West Virginia recognized.

 

“To know so few earned this designation speaks volumes,” said DeFazio. “It’s a reflection on everyone involved from students and teachers to our parents and our community.

 

“Our parents value education and myself and our staff value them because of that,” he continued. “It’s clear that most of our parents make sure their children study, do their homework and do what is necessary to make sure their children succeed in school. When you have that situation going, it makes our job much easier.”

 

DeFazio said honors such as this prove that students can find success in sports, extracurricular activities and other events and also find time to succeed in the classroom.

 

“You hear a lot of talk about how our school does in many things, particularly sports, but this is proof you don’t have to limit yourself to be successful in one area,” said DeFazio. “This proves it can go hand-in-hand with one another.”

 

Bridgeport earned the same designation in 2013-14. Although just three high schools earned the honor this year, a total of 27 schools statewide made the list. In order to considered, you must first be classified as a "Success School."

 

Click HERE to see how the West Virginia Department of Education determines a "Success School" to designate a “Higher Performing Reward School.”

 

Editor's Note: Pictured is BHS Principal Mark DeFazio. Photo by Ben Queen of www.benqueenphotography.com.