NATCHEZ &8212; West Primary and its 23 partners in education tackled attendance this year, and their efforts succeeded Principal Cindy Idom said.

Today the governor will honor them for their work. West is one of seven state schools receiving the governor&8217;s Partnership in Excellence Award.

A committee of teachers from West, who&8217;ve served on the partners committee, will attend a luncheon and seminar in Jackson today.

Each year the school&8217;s partners in education pick a project. This year they focused on ways to boost daily attendance, something that affects test scores and overall school rankings.

The partners provided money and support for parties students who had perfect attendance could attend. They also coordinated efforts with parents to get them involved and committed to attendance.

Idom said partners often visit the school, something the children love.

The Partnership in Excellence Award is a new honor given by the state in conjunction with the Governor&8217;s Awards. Last year, Natchez&8217;s Frazier Primary School was a finalist for the Governor&8217;s Award.

The Partnership in Excellence Award is designed to recognize the quality of awards applications and nominations received for the Governor&8217;s Award. Only four schools receive the Governor&8217;s Award &8212; this year, schools from Jackson, Okolona, Pascagoula and Tupelo.

The committee that chose both award winners considered the needs and goals established for the partnership; activities; communication with students, parents, staff employees, news media and effectiveness.

Other Partnership in Excellence Award winners include schools in Clinton, DeSoto County, Greenville, Jackson, McComb and West Point.

Partners in Education is a national program that encourages community businesses and individuals to donate time, money and support to local public schools.