Va schools earn education excellence award

RICHMOND, Va. (AP) — Officials say 151 public schools and one school division in Virginia have earned the highest awards given under a state incentive program.

Gov. Bob McDonnell announced the winners of the 2013 Virginia Index of Performance awards on Wednesday.

The Virginia Board of Education created the incentive program in 2007. It recognizes schools and divisions that exceed minimum state and federal accountability standards and achieve excellence goals established by the governor and the board.

Superintendent of Public Instruction Patricia I. Wright says the program provides incentives for schools to expand academic opportunities for all students and to adopt best practices that result in engaging, safe and healthy learning environments.