Out of more than 30 county elementary schools in Harford County, four were recognized with high scores on the Maryland State Assessments, results of which were recently released.

Four elementary schools had more than 95 percent of their students proficient in reading and math on the tests, according to the 2011 Maryland Report Card.

Forest Hill, Fountain Green, Ring Factory and Youth's Benefit elementary schools were all recognized for the high scores on the tests, which are administered in third through eighth grades, determining what percentage of students are considered proficient or better in reading and math.

The more than 95 percent score includes both proficient and advanced students.

These four schools joined the 75 percent of Harford County elementary schools that met Adequate Yearly Progress goals set by the federal government in the No Child Left Behind Act, according to a school system release.

For Forest Hill Principal Tammy Bosley, this is something to take pride in and is a reflection of the "highly dedicated staff" of the elementary school, much like those employed by the school system in general, she wrote in an email.

"I am honored to be a part of a school community that holds true to our motto," she wrote, "'where caring leads to excellence.'"

Fountain Green Principal Stacey Gerringer, too, praised the teachers and staff at the school, crediting them and the students' families with the success.

Gerringer also wrote in an e-mail that they worked hard to "implement consistently well-planned, thoughtful instruction," as well as "ensure students are empowered with the tools and strategies to enable them to be successful learners."

"Our success at Fountain Green is due to a myriad of factors," she wrote.

Achieving more than 95 percent proficiency is right in line with Ring Factory's motto, "Reaching higher heights in learning – each and every day!," wrote Principal Earl Gaskins.

In addition to encouraging goal setting and enrichment, Gaskins also wrote that the community was not satisfied with being average or proficient.

"Our students come to school prepared to learn and are challenged every day to work to their highest potential," he wrote.

Like Fountain Green's principal, Youth's Benefit Principal Angela Morton credited the parents and teachers with the high scores, writing that both set high expectations for the students.

"The Youth's Benefit Elementary School community has reason to be very proud that a pattern of improvement continues to be evident in our MSA scores," she wrote.

Associate Superintendent of Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment William Lawrence also had a few comments on the achievements of the four schools, writing that they, like all Harford County public schools, aim for high performances from students.

"The students work extremely hard, and their performance is a direct result of the support from dedicated staff, committed parents and the entire community," he wrote.