Here's more proof of the tremendous quality of life here in the Heart of Tennessee. On Thursday (5/8/2014), when the Education Consumers Foundation recognized Principal Joe Thompson for his role in making Black Fox Elementary one of the most effective schools in the state of Tennessee, as measured by Tennessee’s Value-Added Assessment System (TVAAS).

State Commissioner of Education Kevin Huffman said, “Mr. Thompson and his staff have done an excellent job in helping their students learn. Their record of performance attests to the hard work and dedication of the principals, teachers, students, and parents.”

Black Fox Elementary is one of the state’s top performers on TVAAS, ranking 18th in the state among 765 elementary schools, and is the second place winner of the Value-Added Achievement Awards among elementary schools in Middle Tennessee.

Murfreesboro Director of Schools Linda Gilbert commented, “Murfreesboro City Schools is very proud of what Black Fox has accomplished. Through Professional Learning Communities and a focus on the whole child, Black Fox has enabled student success. The school’s superior performance clearly demonstrates that they are doing an exceptional job in serving their students.”

According to Dr. J.E. Stone, president of the Education Consumers Foundation, “The leadership shown by principals like Joe Thompson is remarkable; it illustrates what can be accomplished regardless of the wealth or poverty of the student body. With TVAAS, people are able to see exactly what each school contributes to the success of its students, not just the test score averages that are so heavily influenced by demographic and socioeconomic differences." 

The winning principals each receive a certificate, a banner and a cash award: $3,000 for 1st place, $2,000 for 2nd place, and $1,000 for 3rd place.

Congratulations to Black Fox Principal Joe Thompson for his dedication and hard work for the students in this area.