When it comes to beating the odds, Edwardsburg Public Schools is doing better than most, according to the Michigan Department of Education.

Eagle Lake Elementary (2010-11 and 2011-12 winner) and Edwardsburg Middle School (2011-12) received “Reward School” designation for beating the odds.

A beating the odds school is defined as one outperforming schools with similar demographics, location, grade level and other student population data.

“This is a highly dedicated and qualified staff that has high expectations for all students. They believe all students will learn which then helps our kids to feel empowered to do well,” Eagle Lake Principal Deb Becraft said.

Dr. Jeff Leslie, 2011-12 middle school principal, said, “The middle school staff works tirelessly on identifying areas where our students don’t understand the rigorous content and provide extra assistance during school, after school through tutoring and in summer school so all students can be successful.”

In considering schools, MDE looked at school-wide improvement rates, achievement gaps and achievement levels.

Reward schools include those achieving or improving at the highest levels throughout the state.

Reward school designations are intended to recognize achievement and offer these schools as models for other schools throughout the state.