Checotah Intermediate School has been named a National School of the Year in the 2026 Discovery Education Awards.

It was announced Monday, May 4 to the Checotah Intermediate School students and educators. CIS principal and new superintendent Ryan Ambrose was proud of the school’s accomplishments.

Checotah Intermediate School was recognized for its unwavering focus on individual student growth through a data-driven, student-centered instructional model. Guided by its mission of “Creating Individual Success and Challenging All to Succeed,” the school sets personalized goals for every learner, emphasizing growth over comparison and ensuring progress is meaningful and attainable for all students.

Through regular progress monitoring, collaborative data analysis, and tiered academic supports, educators respond early to student needs while maintaining high expectations. Social-emotional development and character are reinforced alongside academics through intentional recognition of effort, perseverance, and improvement.

Extended learning opportunities, including STEM projects, goal-setting practices, and strong community partnerships, connect classroom learning to real-world relevance. Together, these aligned practices have driven exceptional academic growth and a culture where students are confident, motivated, and supported to succeed.

About Discovery Education

Discovery Education is a global education technology leader whose innovative solutions empower educators and progress student learning. Discovery Education’s solutions have served more than 100 million students globally, supporting effective teaching and learning in 45% of U.S. K-12 schools and in 100+ countries and territories. The company’s portfolio includes award-winning core and supplemental curriculum, high-quality standards-aligned content, and AI-enabled teaching and learning tools. Solutions span math, science, literacy, social studies, and career- connected learning, including instructionally- aligned content developed through oneof- a-kind partnerships with industry leaders to bring real-world relevance into every lesson. Learn more at www. DiscoveryEducation. com.