Two Canal Winchester Schools Earn Momentum Award

Canal Winchester High School and Middle School are among 8 percent of Ohio schools to earn the Momentum Award for outstanding growth on the 2024–2025 state report card.
“Earning the Momentum Award highlights our staff’s dedication and daily care,” said Kiya Hunt. “They build strong student relationships, use data thoughtfully, and create growth-focused learning experiences. We are proud of our teachers, staff, students, and families for their role in this success.”
The Momentum Award recognizes schools that raise their Performance Index by at least 3 points and earn 4 or more stars for progress. The Performance Index measures student performance across tested subjects, while the Progress score tracks year-over-year student growth.
Canal Winchester High School raised its Performance Index from 86.6 to 90.9 and earned 4 stars for progress, surpassing expectations for student growth.
“This recognition highlights the focus and commitment our staff bring to their work every day,” said Ada Nicholson-Burley. “Our teachers have been intentional about helping students set goals and stay engaged in their learning. Most importantly, our students have taken ownership of their growth, and it’s exciting to see their hard work reflected in these achievements.”
At Canal Winchester Middle School, the Performance Index rose nearly 5 points, from 81.5 to 86.4, and the school earned four stars for exceeding growth expectations in progress.
“Growth looks different for every student, and our staff has done an outstanding job responding to those individual needs,” said Brian Moore. “Their willingness to collaborate, adjust, and support students at every step has made a real impact, and we’re grateful for the partnership of our families along the way.”
Both buildings introduced individualized goal-setting for students in preparation for the 2024–2025 state testing, helping them take ownership of their performance and academic achievement. Combined with mid-year assessments, the use of student data to guide instruction and decision-making, and collaboration between teachers, these efforts contributed to the growth seen in both buildings.