Berrien Springs Middle School and Virtual Academy Middle School Awarded for Excellence

Berrien Springs Public Schools is excited to announce that Berrien Springs Middle School and Berrien Springs Virtual Academy Middle School have been recognized as top-performing schools in Michigan by U.S. News & World Report. This prestigious honor showcases the school's dedication to fostering an environment of academic excellence.

Berrien Springs Middle School and Berrien Springs Virtual Academy Middle School’s achievement results from its high performance in educational metrics. U.S. News & World Report's rigorous evaluation process involves assessing schools based on students' proficiency in mathematics and reading, as gauged by state assessment tests. The assessment considers not only the results but also how these outcomes stand in relation to the socioeconomic demographics of the students. This dual focus ensures that the top-ranked schools, like Berrien Springs Middle School and Berrien Springs Virtual Academy, are not just high-achieving but also excel in educating all their students, regardless of their background​​.

In addition to the U.S. News recognition, the Michigan Department of Education designated Berrien Springs Middle School as a 2021-2022 Reward School in the Spring of last school year. This title is reserved for schools that demonstrate high levels of achievement and growth, along with exemplary practices contributing to student success. The Reward School status is based on various performance areas, including student proficiency and growth, and comparisons with peer schools. This designation places Berrien Springs Middle School among the top 9% of schools in the state, highlighting its exceptional performance and positive impact on student achievement and growth​​.

"Congratulations to Berrien Springs Middle School and Berrien Springs Virtual Academy Middle School for their outstanding achievement! Being recognized as a badge recipient and ranked in the U.S. News and World Report is a testament to their commitment to excellence in education.  Well done on this well deserved honor!," said Steve Spenner, Assistant Superintendent.

About the U.S. News & Report Award
The U.S. News award acknowledges public elementary and middle schools that rank in the top 30% in their state. Schools earning this distinction are eligible to display a U.S. News award badge, symbolizing their high rankings. The badges can be showcased across various mediums, including websites, social media, and physical displays, celebrating the school's excellence​​.