Tifton, GA - Tift County Schools is thrilled to share that 8th Street Middle School and Len Lastinger Elementary earned the "Beating the Odds" distinction from the Georgia Governor’s Office of Student Achievement (GOSA). This honor, based on a statistical analysis of 2024-2025 CCRPI data that was released today, recognizes their exceptional academic performance.This prestigious recognition highlights schools that perform better than statistically expected when compared to schools with similar student populations across the state.
The "Beating the Odds" analysis is a rigorous statistical deep-dive. It doesn’t just look at raw test scores; it accounts for external factors including poverty levels, student mobility, and the percentage of English Language Learners within a school’s population. By exceeding its "predicted" performance, Len Lastinger and 8th Street Middle School have demonstrated that its educators and students are reaching heights that defy the traditional expectations associated with their demographic characteristics.
"This achievement belongs to our entire school community—our dedicated teachers, our hardworking students, and our supportive parents, who challenge and push our students to excel," said Patsy Shivers, Principal of Len Lastinger Elementary. 8th Street Middle School’s Principal Brad Winger explains, "Being a 'Beating the Odds' school proves that background and zip code do not define a child's potential. We are committed to proving that with the right support from an exceptional educator, every student can excel."
While traditional state report cards like the College and Career Ready Performance Index (CCRPI) provide a snapshot of performance, the Beating the Odds designation provides the "value-added" story. It signifies that 8th street middle school and Len Lastinger Elementary are providing a high-quality education that moves the needle further than peer institutions with similar student demographics.
"We don't just want to meet expectations; we want to exceed them," added Natalie Gore, Superintendent. "This designation is a testament to the excellent teachers we have within these schools who are going above and beyond to meet student’s needs and provide them with every support needed to exceed expectations every single day."
For more information on the "Beating the Odds" analysis and to view the full report, visit the GOSA website at gosa.georgia.gov.