The rewarded schools are the top performers under the Department's new school accountability and improvement system. The top 5 percent of these schools, the "Recognition" schools, were given checks based on progress (greatest improvement), performance (greatest achievement), or both.

The schools and their awards are:

• Highest Performance and High Progress ($95,000 each): Ahuimanu Elementary, Red Hill Elementary, Waters of Life Public Charter School
• Highest Performance ($75,000 each): ​E.B. de Silva Elementary, Hickam Elementary, Hokulani Elementary, Lanakila Elementary, Liholiho Elementary, Manoa Elementary, Maunaloa Elementary, Palisades Elementary, Pearl Ridge Elementary.
• Highest Progress ($20,000): Kalihi Uka Elementary, Konawaena Elementary

Red Hill Principal Mona Smoot said, "Our hardworking teachers’ dedication and commitment to our students are why we are able to celebrate today. These funds will play a critical role in allowing schools such as ours to continue to focus on student success and to align our school to Common Core State Standards."