Newport High School in Bellevue was selected by Successful Practices Network as one of three schools in the country to participate in a research study that will seek in-depth understanding of the critical factors that produced the school’s excellent results.

The Successful Practices Network, is a not-for-profit organization that focuses on identifying and disseminating successful practices that can assist all students in achieving higher standards.

Newport High School was recognized as a top school from a group of 75 high-performing schools. Selection of the schools was based on their performance on the Learning Criteria to Support 21st Century Learners, which identifies data in four dimensions of learning: foundation learning, learner engagement, stretch learning and personal skill development.

“We are delighted that these exceptional schools will be sharing their power strategies aligned to four critical areas of education that go beyond just passing the state tests. These schools have figured out how to provide all students with a rigorous and relevant education that prepares them for postsecondary education, work, and life,” said Willard R. Daggett, Chairman of the Board of the Successful Practices Network.

Researchers from Successful Practices Network will visit Newport during the first week of February to analyze how the school develops and supports a culture of high expectations and student engagement. The result will be a comprehensive report on power strategies implemented at the school that led to its success. Newport High School will present the findings at the Model Schools Conference at the end of June in Orlando, Fla.

“Much of Newport’s success is attributed to our district’s vision and commitment to rigorous coursework for all students coupled with strong student support programs and community involvement,” explained Newport High School Principal Bethany Spinler.

Newport High School was selected four years ago to be part of a Successful Practices Network grant, Models, Networks and Policies to Support and Sustain Rigor and Relevance for ALL Students, funded in part by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation in coordination with the Council of Chief State School Officers and the International Center for Leadership in Education.

The two other schools chosen by Successful Practices Network include Saunders Trades and Technical High School in New York and Withrow University High School in Ohio.

Lindsay Larin can be reached at 425.453.4602.

For more information visit www.successfulpractices.org.