Jackson Heights Middle School, a FLaRE school in 2002, has seen their students steadily improve their reading writing, and math scores on the FCAT. The writing scores went up .7 points to 4.5 and the reading scores decreased the number of  level 1’s and level 2’s on the FCAT by 8% while increasing the level 4’s and 5’s by 14%. These significant gains have occurred due to the leadership of principal Mr. Winston Bailey, and the hard work of staff, students and parents.

Winston Bailey has been the principal for the past three years. During this time he has initiated a homeroom reading plan, established a bi-weekly planning period for professional development, assisted in creating a Reading Mentor Program using community volunteers, and supported the creation of a county-wide middle school Battle of the Books. This competition has been held at Jackson Heights for the only two years of it's existence. Two years ago FLaRE helped the media specialist create a Staff Favorite Book area in the Media Center. In October the staff presented the Just Read, Florida! play, Mysteries in the Middle. This is the second year the staff performed the play at a Family night for students and parents. Mr. Bailey is supported with a strong literacy team that includes a literacy-oriented Assistant Principal Kathy Horner, the Reading Coach Dr. Keron Kerr, and the Media Specialist Dr. Cheryl Gardieff. They are continuing to find ways to improve student learning and increase motivation.