Four Oconee County Schools are being recognized as Title I Distinguished Schools for 2011-12.

According to the Georgia Department of Education, Title I schools have significant populations of students who are economically disadvantaged. These schools receive federal money to assist with the education of their students.

There were 824 schools across Georgia that made Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) for three consecutive years or more and earned the distinction for 2011-12.

"These schools are showing that high expectations, coupled with effective educators in the building, produce outstanding student achievement," State Superintendent John Barge said in a released statement.

Oconee County Primary has met AYP for 13 years straight and been named a Title I Distinguished School for 11 of those years.  Along with the recognition, the school will be awarded $3,060.

Colham Ferry Elementary, Oconee County Elementary and Oconee County Middle have all made AYP for nine consecutive years and been named Title I Distinguished Schools for seven years in a row. Each school will receive a certificate in recognition of the achievement. 

Superintendent John Jackson wrote in a weekly email update, "Congratulations and thank you to the teachers and support staff at these schools for your hard work."