National Blue Ribbon Schools Program

Valley View Junior High is a public school in Jonesboro Arkansas comprised of grades 7-9. Despite minimal federal funding and rigorous state mandates, the school has achieved academic success for consecutive years. The school slogan, “Where the Community Makes the Difference”, is one of the biggest factors for their success. Strong parental and community support partner in the educational process of students by setting high standards for academic achievement.

A culture of learning and academic success is a vital factor to the prosperity of the school. The school fosters a learning environment that instills high expectations and desires “Excellence in Education for All”. Through a variety of strategies, teachers integrate technology to implement 21st century learning. Students are motivated to achieve mastery and desire to be college and career ready. Valley View has a graduation rate of 97%. Like teachers, parents take an active role in the learning process by serving on committees and volunteering time to provide students with opportunities that enrich learning. An active Parent Teacher Association financially contributes by providing technological resources and other instructional materials that enhance the learning environment.

While curriculum and instruction are key contributors to the success of Valley View, consistency and relationships with students drive the learning process. As principal Barry Jones says, “As a staff, we focus on the process not the outcome. If you believe in the process, successes will come to you. You just have to be willing to see it through to the end. Education is more than just curriculum, it is about building relationships with students."