Ironton High School was one of two Lawrence County Schools to earn the distinction of “School of Promise” in 2013. Ohio State Superintendent of Public Instruction Dr. Richard A. Ross will be at the IHS auditorium next week to present the school with the distinguished honor.

“Ironton High School is proving every day that failure is not an option for any student,” Ross said in his announcement to IHS Principal Joseph Rowe. “Because of that, I am pleased to recognize you, your students, teachers, administrators and families for being named a 2013 School of Promise.”

IHS received the distinction from the state because its overall score increased from 91.3 percent for the 2006-2007 school year to 97.4 percent during the 2012-2013 school year.

“We strive to become better every year and we are proud of our accomplishments,” Dean Nance, Ironton Schools Superintendent, said. “We have identified areas where we can improve and we celebrate the accomplishments we have made. It’s a good time for Ironton City Schools right now.”

The School of Promise distinction comes at a time, Nance said, when all Ironton schools are experiencing increased academic achievement, improved curricular and extracurricular facilities and a balanced budget.

“The Ohio Department of Education recognizes your success in closing the math or reading achievement gaps for the students in your school,” Ross said in his letter to Rowe. “As a former district superintendent, principal and teacher, I know how difficult your job is. You are providing the girls and boys in your school with the skills they need to be successful.”

Ironton was one of 141 Schools of Promise in Ohio and will soon receive a banner displaying the distinction to hang at the school. Ross is slated to arrive at the school around 12:30 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 30.