EDUCATION

Clearly, a tough challenge but one that many of you tackled head-on in nominating the best public elementary and middle schools in our fourth annual Top Schools Survey.

After calling for nominations in nine categories — which are based on extensive research with a panel of experts, educators and parents — we received submissions from coast to coast. What impressed us most was your passion and perspective. We heard from one mom who felt “qualified” to identify an exceptional school since her four children have attended nine schools in all. Another parent had experienced schools on three continents. And one couple so respected a principal’s values that they purposely bought their new home within his school’s boundaries.

With your help, we’ve taken a closer look at these educational gems. Read about them in the following pages. We’ve singled out three standouts for special recognition. Be sure to check out the WOWs — words of wisdom — to soak up insight and inspiration on how to make your school a great one.

marks the standouts.

Originally published in Today's Parent, September 2007