Hansen Wins Breaking Barriers Award

Five Iowa schools were honored by the State Board of Education for their work to raise achievement among groups of students who traditionally face challenges in the classroom. The Breaking Barriers to Teaching and Learning Award was created by the State Board of Education. Each year, the award recognizes successful efforts to eliminate achievement gaps.

This year’s award-winners were recognized for having the highest proficiency rates statewide in math and reading among a specific subgroup of students, such as students whose first language is not English and students from low-income backgrounds. State assessment results from the last three years were examined to confirm a positive trend for each school.

Helen Hansen Elementary was honored for its work with students who have special needs and are on an Individualized Education Programs (IEP). Among Hansen’s students on IEPs, 79 percent are proficient in reading and math, compared to a statewide average of 43 percent.