Abington Senior High School has won the Pennsylvania State Modern Language Association (PSMLA) Golden Globe Award for the 2016-2017 and 2017-2018 school years as part of the PSMLA Excellent Program (PEP) Award Program. This award recognizes schools across the state that excel in 11 criteria established by PSMLA to evaluate language programs. Abington is one of 19 high schools in Pennsylvania that has earned the Golden Globe award, the highest award given.
The Golden Globe Award is a testament to the importance placed on language study by Abington School District and the work of both staff and students. Although the PSMLA PEP program awards high schools, Abington Junior High School is a key component in Abington’s application and ultimate success in the award process. A school needs to meet 8 of 11 criteria in an award category (Gold, Silver, Bronze, Globe) in order to earn that award. The 11 criteria are:
1. Maintain high percentage of total world language enrollment.
2. Provide a variety of languages in a 4 year high school sequence.
3. Retain students at higher levels.
4. Participate in AP, IB, level 5, and/or CIS program.
5. Schedule classes that are one level per period.
6. Provide an extended sequence of instruction in at least one commonly taught language.
7. Implement Key Instructional Practices.
8. Administer Standards-based performance assessment(s).
9. Engage in yearly staff development on world language topics.
10. Maintain current membership in professional organizations.
11. Provide special program features.
Abington School District has won the Golden Globe Award each year since 2012. This reflects the hard work and dedication of the World Language teachers to strive to consistently maintain the 11 standards for an excellent program. This award is truly a demonstration of the teachers’ passion for their craft and for the students of Abington School District. Abington is recognized on the PSMLA website with details on its application.