Record Number of High Schools Earn 'A' Letter Grades

A record number of Florida high schools and combination schools earned an A school grade this year, with 240 schools or 48 percent making the highest grade, according to a press release sent Friday by the Florida Department of Education.

The department also noted that since 2010-11, the number of A high schools and combination schools has jumped by 92 schools, an increase of 17 percentage points.

The results are preliminary pending an appeal window that ends Jan. 22, 2014.

Gov. Rick Scott applauded the schools and their academic achievement, saying it's a sign that Florida's teachers are doing a good job at providing students with a solid education.

With more high schools earning 'As, it is clear that our teachers are succeeding in providing Florida students with a quality education," said Scott. "A great education is the cornerstone of Floridas future and thats why we fought to provide $480 million for teacher pay raises.

Commissioner of Education Pam Stewart thanked those involved in Florida's academic success:

Thank you to Floridas teachers, parents and school leaders for their outstanding commitment to continuing academic success, she said. Todays results show that more students are ready for college or a career than ever. I am proud of the work our educators are doing every day in the classroom to prepare them for success.