The Center for Educational Effectiveness recently named its School of Distinction Award Winners for 2012. South Kitsap School District is home to five of the 54 elementary schools named across the state. Only one other district in Washington was home to five recipients, Clover Park School District. The School of Distinction Award celebrates improvement in reading and mathematics combined scores on state assessments. In an award ceremony at South Kitsap School District on December 5, 2012, the schools, principals and teachers were honored. Olympic ESD Superintendent Walt Bigby presented the awards to Burley Glenwood Elementary, East Port Orchard Elementary, Orchard Heights Elementary, Sidney Glen Elementary and Sunnyslope Elementary. Orchard Heights, Sidney Glen and East Port Orchard Elementary are repeat winners. East Port Orchard Elementary is the only school in Washington to receive the award five times in a row. Three other South Kitsap Schools were in the top 10% of improving schools across the state.
In a ceremony celebrating educational achievements, South Kitsap Highlighters began with “When You Wish Upon a Star,” followed by Greg Lobdell, CEE President discussing the award implications. Presentation of the awards and a brief reception followed. Dave Colombini, South Kitsap Assistant Superintendent and Washington Association of School Administrators Representative stated, “I don’t think any other district or board member can be as proud to be here and congratulate you.” The Center for Educational Effectiveness (CEE) was created in part by former State Superintendent Terry Bergeson, who observed that schools were doing well, but not being recognized for their efforts.The Center for Educational Effectiveness partners with the Association of Educational Service Districts, the Association of Washington School Principals, Phi Delta Kappa- Washington Chapter, Washington Association of School Administrators, Washington State ASCD and Washington State School Directors’ Association. The award is presented to schools that represent the top 5% of improvement in all schools in Washington State.
 | East Port Orchard ElementaryFive time School of Distinction Award Recipient |
 | Sidney Glen ElementaryRepeat Winner |
 | Orchard Heights ElementaryRepeat Winner |
 | Burley Glenwood ElementaryFirst time winner |
 | Sunnyslope ElementaryFirst time winner |