Alki Elementary is one of eight Seattle Public Schools honored this year as “Schools of Distinction,” the only one in West Seattle. The district’s announcement explains that the honors go to “the highest-improving Washington State schools, staff, and their leaders for improved performance for all students,” as measured over a five-year period. Alki was lauded specifically for improvements in English-language arts and mathematics. This is the 11th year for the awards, overseen by the Center for Educational Effectiveness, described in its announcement as a ” a service, consulting, and research organization dedicated to the mission of partnering with K-12 schools to improve student learning.” See the full statewide list here.