QC school named one of the best Iowa elementary schools

Blue Grass Elementary school teachers and staff are thrilled to be ranked as one of the best schools in the state.

“If I can make some eyeballs pop out. If I can make them go ‘Wait, what was that?’ I’m doing my job,” said Blue Grass science teacher Travis Benner. 

The school is in the top 15% of Iowa elementary schools out of 942 Iowa public elementary schools that are ranked.

“We love that we are being recognized because we truly do believe that the students deserve it,” said Blue Grass Elementary School Principal Sarah Gott.

School rankings are based on students’ scores in reading, math, and in other factors like state assessment scores. Sixth grader Malina Lein says it means a lot to be a part of a top-ranked school.

“It shows all the hard work that the teachers do, and the students do. It’s really great to hear,” said Lein. “They made every day so fun here.”

Benner also believes awards like this show how much teachers care for the success of their students and the positive reinforcement that makes a difference in their lives.

“And that takes a lot of effort,” said Banner. “I go home every day and I’m tired, but it’s worth it because otherwise I’m not going to make that personal connection. I’ve seen it. You don’t make the impact that you need to make.”

“When you really drive excitement and curiosity, you’re going to get better academic outcomes,” Banner added. “If I can steer them toward some kind of a career or a love of science, it’s going to help them be successful in life.”

Gott says it takes team work to be top-ranked.

“With a lot of hard work, great community involvement, and an extremely amazing supportive district that kind of all layers together to make this school an amazing place,” said Gott. “From the ground up, we are really fortunate with strong educators, with a great curriculum, and our kids are extraordinary.”