Lyons Upper Elementary School and Toombs Central Elementary School have been recognized in nine performance categories and have earned the elite top distinction as Lighthouse Schools by the Blue Ribbon Schools of Excellence, a nonprofit organization that independently assesses schools to ensure students are getting the best education possible.

Toombs County Schools Superintendent Barry Waller said that the team spent a day-and-a-half at each of the schools, and observed in real time how the schools, staff, students and parents interact and operate.

“We didn’t put on a dog and pony show,” he said. “We just had ‘school,’ and the word I got from the team was always positive.”

According to Lyons Upper Elementary School Principal Tabatha Nobles, in addition to in person observance in each classroom in the schools, data was considered that reflected a 3 – 5-year period.

“We’re proud of these two schools; not all schools can claim this honor,” Waller said.

LUES Principal Nobles and Toombs Central Principal Destiny Levant will accept all of the documentation and awards in December in Orlando.