CHILDREN AT RISK Announces the Top 25 High Schools in Alabama

HOUSTON, Feb. 9, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- CHILDREN AT RISK has released their rankings of the top Alabama High Schools in Science and Mathematics. The organization researched and ranked public high schools in Alabama for their performance in math and science education, and Loveless Academic Magnet Program High School tops the list as the state's number one high school. The research study was sponsored by El Paso Corporation's Southern Natural Gas.

CHILDREN AT RISK is a research and advocacy non-profit dedicated to improving the quality of life of America's children. Education is one of CHILDREN AT RISK's primary areas of focus, and the organization uses evidence-based research to weigh in on school quality.

"Statewide, there are outstanding models of quality public schools in Alabama," said Dr. Robert Sanborn, president and CEO of CHILDREN AT RISK.  "Loveless Academic Magnet Program stands out as the best in providing students with the tools and resources needed to be exceptional young people. Mathematics and science are increasingly integral to the U.S. economy, and it is more important than ever to ensure that students are well-prepared for post-secondary success in these fields."

Compiling and Analyzing the Data

CHILDREN AT RISK's Alabama High School Science and Mathematics Report is based on the evaluation of 348 public high schools.  Some schools were omitted due to incomplete data, or for being a vocational, special education or alternative school. The complete listing can be found at www.childrenatrisk.org

Researchers based their methodology on nine measures of performance to evaluate how well Alabama's public schools are preparing students for post-secondary success in science and mathematics.  Key indicators included graduation rates, participation in advanced coursework, and performance on college entrance exams.

Researchers also identified "Gold Ribbon Schools" in Alabama.  These are schools that performed well in the Science and Mathematics Rankings and also have a student population that is over 90 percent economically disadvantaged.  That's a huge factor to overcome, but the three Gold Ribbon Schools also finished in the top 10 percent of all high schools in the state. 

About CHILDREN AT RISK

CHILDREN AT RISK is a nonprofit organization leading the way to improving the quality of life for children through strategic research, public policy analysis, education, collaboration, and advocacy. CHILDREN AT RISK educates the community and public officials based on its groundbreaking research which tracks children's education, health, safety, and economic conditions. By understanding children's needs and speaking out on their behalf, CHILDREN AT RISK drives change. Visit us at www.childrenatrisk.org, or on Facebook and Twitter to learn more.

CONTACT:
Rashena Flagg
713-301-4577
[email protected]

SOURCE CHILDREN AT RISK