Clark Fork students, teachers are a class act

How cool is Clark Fork High School's selection as one of the top high schools in the United States?

Without the resources of larger schools, from financial to staffing to class variety, Clark Fork met goals mandated by the federal No Child Left Behind Act. In doing so, the school's Idaho State Achievement Test scores attracted the attention of the National Center for Education Accountability, which placed CFHS at the head of the class for schools its size in Idaho.

That's no small achievement. Consider the resources larger schools, especially those in southern Idaho, are able to devote to their students. Then consider what Clark Fork High School achieved with much more limited resources.

The difference? Teachers who bond with their students and who genuinely care about them as people. If a teen is struggling, tutoring is arranged. Its small teacher-to-student ratio allows the school to give individual attention and ensure students' success.

Only one other school in Idaho earned a bronze medal, Kootenai Jr.-Sr. High School in Harrison.

To make the list, schools with disadvantaged students had to prove they were performing better than similar students in the state. Students also had to perform better than students in the same group. Schools were then given medal status based on a college readiness index based upon how many students participated in AP courses along with their tests results.

Our future — our students — are in great hands.

Caroline Lobsinger is the managing editor of the Daily Bee.