The Office for Education Policy (OEP) at the University of Arkansas has recognized Morrilton Junior High School (MJHS) as a school where students demonstrated high academic growth on the state’s ATLAS assessment. The OEP’s Outstanding Educational Performance Awards celebrate schools whose students show exceptional improvement year over year—a powerful measure of a school’s positive impact on learning.
In its annual Middle School Level report, the OEP honored Morrilton Junior High with the High Overall Growth (Statewide) award. MJHS ranked #18 among all middle and junior high schools in Arkansas for overall growth in both math and English Language Arts (ELA).
Growth is one of the most meaningful indicators of school success because it reflects how much students learn and improve over time, not just how they perform on a single test. This recognition highlights the dedication of the MJHS staff, students, and families to continual progress and academic excellence.
Superintendent Shawn Halbrook praised the recognition, saying:
“This award reflects the mindset of our staff and students at Morrilton Junior High School. Our teachers believe they make the difference in whether students master the essential learning standards, and they never stop believing that every student can and will achieve at high levels. That belief—combined with great teaching, collaboration, and care—is what drives our success.”
This recognition adds to a growing list of achievements across the South Conway County School District, affirming its mission to maximize the safety, learning, and achievement of every scholar.
Congratulations to the staff, students, and families of Morrilton Junior High School for their extraordinary dedication and achievement.