in Sherman Oaks has received $5,000 from the Intel Foundation for being one of 18 schools across the country to introduce innovative math and science programs.
"This is a great honor, and it shows you the great work that our teachers and students are doing in the math and science area," said Millikan Principal John Plevack in a telephone interview. Plevack was returning from a dinner Wednesday in Washington, DC, where the awards were announced.
In giving Millikan the award, Intel released a statement saying, "At Millikan Middle School, student success is largely driven by a uniquely dedicated staff, despite lack of funding and modern technology. For example, the entire school of 2,260 students shares just 50 graphing calculators!"
Millikan has long been considered one of the bright lights among schools in the Los Angeles Unified School District. It has consistently scored high in district-wide test exams. The school population is diverse, and 28 different languages are spoken among its students.
"Teachers are constantly communicating with parents on student progress," says Carlos Contreras, Intel’s U.S. education director. "Students attend tutoring during lunch and after school to ensure they understand the material," he said.
Intel sponsors the Schools of Distinction Awards to honor schools for implementing innovative math and science programs and serving as models for other schools.
"There are lots of new ways to educate 21st-century students, and they are on the cutting edge of that," Contreras said.
