East Greenwich Public Schools continue to ride a wave of high marks, this time from the state Department of Education’s new classifications for every school in the state.

The classifications, released July 13, gave both East Greenwich High School and Cole Middle School “commended” status, the highest ranking. Only six high schools and three middle schools achieved commended status.

The elementary schools did not fare as well.

Hanaford and Meadowbrook Farms earned “Leading” classifications – the second-highest classification. Eldredge and Frenchtown earned “Typical” classifications.

The other classifications are, in descending order, “warning,” “focus,” and “priority.”

“It’s encouraging to see we continue to do very well, especially with Cole and the high school,” said Supt. Victor Mercurio. “It’s a source of great pride and satisfaction.”

Classifications were based on a variety of measurements, including the number of students at proficiency and how well the school is serving all its students, including those with disabilities. In addition, the classifications took into consideration whether or not all students were making progress.

Referring to the difference between the elementary schools and the middle and high schools, Mercurio noted most districts see the opposite pattern, with elementary schools being stronger than the middle and high schools.

He said he was not able to explain why the elementary schools scored lower, but suggested on the high school level, anyway, students may have been better prepared for the NECAP tests because of the rigorous testing in all courses there.

The key, he said, is to figure out “what do we have in place in terms of assistance” for students who need it.

Mercurio said he expected moving the sixth grades to Cole Middle School would “pay dividends in the long run.”

As for the two schools rated “typical,” Mercurio said he felt “we’re progressing in the direction we should be progressing.”

He said the Admin Council (a group comprised of building principals and central office administrators) is meeting on Friday and will be looking at each of the schools.