DURANT, OK -- Durant students will be returning to nationally recognized schools this fall. Durant is one of 25 school districts in the U.S. to receive the Pacesetter award. The award was presented to faculty and staff Thursday. Administrators also announced the theme for the 2008-2009 school year: "Lion-hearted: success driven." Teachers say this year they are focusing on team work, faculty cooperation, and positive attitudes.

So far they are off to a good start by winning the Pacesetter award.

"It's based on our AP courses, test scores, tutorial sessions, teachers as advisors program, and following the ten key steps to a high school that works," said Stacy Sheperd with Durant ISD.

Durant students start school Tuesday, August 12th, 2008.