In working to improve student achievement, Crestwood and Truman elementary schools didn’t just aim high, they landed among the stars.

Crestwood and Truman in the Lindbergh School District have been named Missouri Gold-Star Schools for 2009. State education officials last week announced 15 high-performing Missouri elementary schools.

The Lindbergh School District is one of three districts statewide to distinguish themselves this year by having two buildings qualify for the Gold-Star designation.

Lindbergh is the only St. Louis County school district having two buildings earn Gold-Star recognition.

Established by the state in 1991, the Gold-Star program identifies schools that are performing at a high level academically or making exceptional progress while serving a significant proportion of disadvantaged students. The program is intended to allow each school community to reflect on the successes they have achieved and to celebrate those accomplishments.

To become a Gold-Star School, a school must meet the high performance standards established by the U.S. Department of Education and provide evidence that it meets criteria shown by research to promote school effectiveness and best practices.

“It is a true honor to receive this award,” Crestwood Elementary Principal Scott Taylor stated in a news release. “The Gold-Star School distinction is a reflection of the hard work of the students, teachers and parents in the Lindbergh School District.”

This is the first year Crestwood has received a Gold-Star award.

Truman Elementary Principal Julie Hutchins stated, “We value the chance to be a model school of excellence for others across the state.”

Truman received a Gold-Star award in the 1998-1999 school year as well as Blue-Ribbon School designation.