For Immediate Release Contacts: Patricia E. Taylor, Coordinator

Curriculum and Instruction

Date: May 21, 2008 804-358-9237 or 358-8975

Barbara Marshall, Exec. Assist.

804-358-6053

newsweek RECOGNIZES Maggie Walker

as one of the 17 “BEST OF THE BEST” SCHOOLS

RICHMOND, VA - Maggie L. Walker Governor's School for Government and International Studies (MLWGS) was recognized by Newsweek magazine as one of 17 “Public Elites” that were excluded from the list of the top 1300 “Best High Schools in the nation “ because their students are too good. The best of the best.” These top performing schools are listed in alphabetical order at http://www.newsweek.com/id/137421 , with MLWGS listed on page 2.

The other Virginia school listed as one of the 17 “best of the best” is Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology in Arlington, VA. Both Virginia schools were also recognized by Newsweek magazine as one of the 21 “Public Elites” in 2006, the first year for this category of recognition, and one of 19 schools in 2007. Even though these schools demonstrate “exceptional quality…their sky-high SAT and ACT scores indicate they have few or no average students.”

The word “elite” may be used to describe the rigorous and accelerated college preparatory program that MLWGS offers its students, but not the distinctive learning community at the school. MLWGS represents a culturally, socioeconomically, ethnically, and geographically diverse population. The common denominator for the students who are selected to enter into this academically challenging program is that they are risk-takers who leave behind home schools and friends in search of a “broad-based educational experience that develops their understanding of world cultures and languages, as well as the ability to lead, participate, and contribute in a rapidly changing global society.”

In addressing the question about why a separate category was developed for schools like MLWGS, Newsweek indicated, “The Challenge Index is designed to honor schools that have done the best job in persuading average students to take college-level courses and tests.” Indeed, Maggie Walker students are selected for admission and undergo a highly competitive process coordinated by a regional planning team. However, students who are selected come from diverse backgrounds and accept the challenges offered, including the opportunity to learn in 26 Advanced Placement courses, more than 30 university dual enrollment courses, honors courses, mentorships, and research seminars. These students are nurtured and supported as they strive to excel in this highly rigorous academic program, to set high goals for their advanced studies beyond the secondary school level, and to give back to the communities in which they live.

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Maggie L. Walker Governor’s School

1000 North Lombardy Street

Richmond, VA 23220

Phone: 804-354-6800

Fax: 804-354-6939