Superintendent Reginald James stood proudly between a few of the smartest students in Florida.

"Six of our eight schools had double digit progress."

Gadsden County's fourth graders rank 6th highest in the sunshine state.

100 percent of Gretna Elementary students passed the writing portion for the FCAT, proving they're willing to do the work to be an 'A' school.

The principal of Gretna Elementary talked about the preparation of her students,

"We focused our energy on our writing scores very diligently from day one."

Eight Shanks Middle School kids made a perfect score on the exam --- as did some elementary students.

Ja'quirra Robinson from Stewart Street Elementary says,

"I think I got a six because I studied and I did my best."

"This year was the first year that students were required to have at least a four to have a passing score. So, our students were able to rise to those expectations and exceed those."

Sarah Bragg from St. John Elementary said preparation was key,

"We practiced everyday and they learned the format and they really put in the practice. They really want to be successful in life and I really think they are pushing themselves further and further every year."