Jones College Prep Gets High Marks from the State

There has been a lot of coverage over the past couple years about the plans for a new building for Jones College Prep (606 S. State), one of the states best public high schools. The picture on the right is the design for those of you who are curious. However, yesterday we read a story in the Trib about a different subject, but still very positive for the school:

Students at Jones College Prep High School got a surprise Monday when Illinois' top educator said the South Loop school had received more of the state's academic awards than any other public school.

One of Chicago's most selective high schools, Jones was recognized for its consistently high academic performance -- more than 80 percent of high school students surpassed state standards in reading and math -- as well as its high academic performance as a school where more than half of students live in poverty. In all, Jones has gotten 14 awards since the Illinois Honor Roll program began in 2003, state officials said.

"It's a remarkable achievement," Illinois schools Superintendent Christopher Koch told students gathered in the auditorium for a surprise assembly that prompted high-fives and cheers. "It's a pretty big deal."

What's more, the senior class earned a composite score of 24.9 out of 36 on the college entrance exam, the highest score posted in the school's history.

(Image from Gazette Chicago)