FRANKLIN
After some years of struggle, the work by the students and faculty at J.P. King Jr. Middle School finally paid off this year. The scoring on Standards of Learning tests showed significant improvement. So much so that the Virginia Department of Education announced last week that the school has earned full accreditation.

On Thursday afternoon, the city school administration and school board gathered at City Hall to throw a small party for the faculty and staff of J.P. King

Supt. Tamara Sterling praised Principal Lisa Francis and crew for their dedication and hard work to not only raise the scores, but also the level of learning among students.

Francis said the news has been “very, very exciting. It’s been a long journey.”

She added that much of the current faculty and staff — “best staff ever” — have been with her the past five years. Their dedication and commitment has all been for the kids,” which Francis added, “is the main thing.”

The school was also recognized during the board meeting later that evening.