Middle schools awarded grant money

Tucumcari and Logan middle schools are getting surprise grant money from the state for improving student test scores.

Tucumcari Middle School will receive $13,463.91 and Logan Middle School is getting $3,328.16.

The award recognizes the middle schools as one of just 48 schools in New Mexico earning a "Top Growth" designation from the state Public Education Department. The grant is given for improvement in 2012 New Mexico Standards Based Assessment tests.

Secretary-Designate of Education Hanna Skandera said Logan and Tucumcari raised their grade average from a D to a B. She said the state wants to champion these schools and give support where it is deserved.

Skandera said she will ask the legislature for more money to help the struggling schools in the state.

The grant money must be used for books and instructional materials, according to the state education department.

Tucumcari Middle School Principal Roberta Segura

said the school hasn't decided what books and supplies they will purchase yet. She said that they are very excited to receive the money and "We know how hard we work and it is great to be recognized."

Logan Schools Superintendent Johnnie Cain called it a nice surprise. Cain said he is proud of the accomplishment by students.

Cain said the school will determine how the award money will be spent after sitting down with the teachers to go over what supplies are needed.

New Mexico Public Education Department spokesman Christopher Thwealt said 88 schools received grant money.

Thwealt said students all of "Top Growth" schools worked hard at raising their scores.