Powell’s public schools and community college were recognized this year for providing quality education.

Northwest College was ranked No. 4 among the nation’s community colleges in August by WalletHub.com, an online data service.

The report analyzed data from 670 community colleges in the United States in four categories: cost and financing, classroom experience, education outcomes and career outcomes. Each category included several subcategories of data. 

NWC President Stefani Hicswa said the focus for the college is on student retention, academic rigor and student success.

“It’s nice to know where we stand nationally, but our focus is on our students,” she said. “We’re doing what we’re doing for student success.”

NWC Board President John Housel of Cody said the college’s high ranking was no surprise to him.

“It’s my belief that any of those instructors can be compared with those at any other college or university in the country,” he said. “The educational experience at Northwest, the quality and the excellence, can be compared (equally as well).”

Meanwhile, Park County School District No. 1 received a glowing review from an accreditation team in October.

“Honestly, I’m amazed and blown away by what you guys are doing here,” said Rob Black of Cheyenne, an education consultant with the Wyoming Department of Education.

It’s evident that the Powell school district puts children first, the accreditation team said in its report.

“I was just overwhelmed with the positive report and mainly the focus about our employees taking care of children — that’s what we’re here for,” said Kevin Mitchell, Park County School District No. 1 superintendent.

In September, Southside Elementary School was named a 2015 Model Professional Learning Community School. About 200 schools in the United States and Canada earned the honor this year.

Parkside Elementary School was named a National Title I Distinguished School in November. Only 100 schools or fewer in the country receive the honor each year.