Article by: Lena Miano of the Arkansas Democrat Gazette
The Little Rock Southwest High School Renaissance Team, a group of students working with the Little Rock School District to promote the achievement and recognition of fellow Southwest peers, marked a milestone by unveiling a Jostens Renaissance Platinum Level School of Distinction banner on Wednesday.
In the summer of 2024, Russellville-based school product supplier Jostens recognized 84 schools for their positive impact on school climate and culture by using the Renaissance Results Formula, which includes respecting, recognizing and rewarding actions that align with a school’s values, reinforcing values, creating strong relationships and driving results.
As the only team in the state to be recognized, Southwest High joined 58 schools across the nation that won the platinum distinction last year — the highest distinction — while the remaining 26 schools were awarded either gold or silver distinction.
Platinum schools of distinction are those that emphasized the importance of graduation through three initiatives; recognized students; faculty and staff through Renaissance events; collected student feedback; and networked with other schools, according to the Jostens website.