Magazine names Argo among best high schools in Illinois
“It is my pleasure to inform you that Argo has
been included in the 2019-2020 U.S. News and World Report list of Best High
Schools in Illinois,” Principal Chris Covino said last week.Ê
“This is a great recognition, especially in
our centennial year. Argo will be receiving a commemorative plaque, and
we are officially licensed to display the U.S. News Award badge on all of our
documents and media.Ê
“You’ll notice that unlike the last
designation (six years ago) from U.S. News, this is a national recognition –
which makes it even more special.”Ê
“Four years ago, Argo held a
ranking of 385 out of 702 eligible high schools, andwas not evenconsidered,”
Covino said.”This year, Argo holds the rank of 155 out of 811 eligible
schools – placing itsolidly in the top 20%of all schools in
Illinois.”
Covino attributed the improvement (moving
ahead of 230 other schools) in the rankings to great students, a tremendous
teaching staff, and several administrative decisions made in the last four
years, notably:Ê
The elimination of remedial coursework in all
academic areas
The tremendous and growing dual credit
partnership with Moraine Valley Community College
The dual credit partnership with Indiana
University
The expansion of career focused coursework
The reduction of barriers for students to
enter advanced placement (AP) and dual credit courses.
Building more robust SAT preparation
coursework
Departments solidifying a focus on skill-based
instruction in all academic subjects
All of these are components of
the criteria US News uses to issue this recognition.
ʔI am very proud to have been the principal
during these changes, and I thank the Board of Education for the opportunity
and support to make difficult decisions for students over the last four
years. Our work has paid off for the students, the community, and the
legacy of Argo Community High School.”
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