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Even more good things are coming out of Garner Magnet High School, namely being recognized by the U.S. News & World Report as one of North Carolina’s best schools.

The school’s Bronze Medal-winning performance was announced on May 8. More than 21,000 schools are evaluated in the nation. GMHS is part of the top 15 percent of schools recognized.

GMHS Principal Drew Cook said the recognition is just one more sign of progress at the school.

“We’re thrilled and we’re tickled to be in that category,” he said. “It’s a tribute to the hard work our students and our staff put in every day.”

The three-prong ranking system picks out schools by how students perform in English and Math courses, comparing those numbers to statistics on expected student achievement. The schools are then rated based on how the least-advantaged students perform. And once through that round, schools are judged on college-readiness with Advanced Placement or International Baccalaureate testing and scores.

Cook said while AP testing scores have risen in past years, it’s still an area for improvement.

“We’re certainly pleased, but we’re not satisfied,” he said.

However, the recognition is based on statistics from 2010 and Cook is excited to see Garner move up in the ranks as the achievement numbers continue to climb.

But, for the most part, GMHS faculty and administrators don’t worry about recognition. Cook said the GMHS family goes about business as usual, but when credit is given to one of North Carolina’s largest schools they appreciate it. Not only does it give motivation and validation to teachers, but it encourages students as well.

“Success breeds more success,” Cook said. “Kids can do some amazing things.”

Cook said the distinction also is a reflection of parent involvement.

Along with GMHS, Wake County touted two more rankings. Broughton High School was ranked third in the state and 996th nationally. Sanderson High School was ranked 12th in North Carolina at 1,756th in the nation. Both of those schools received a Silver Medal.

Also in Wake County, Southern Wake Academy earned a Bronze Medal. South Wake Academy, a charter school in the Fuquay-Varina/Holly Springs area, is not part of the Wake County Public School System.

Contact Kelly Griffith at kgriffith@heartlandpublications.com or 919-552-5675.