Students who attend Briscoe Elementary School in Fort Worth, Texas, do not necessarily have the easiest lives, and 97 percent of them are poor. However, the teachers are determined and dedicated. As a result, the school is the only one in Tarrant County nominated for the national Blue Ribbons Schools award, according to the Fort Worth Star-Telegram.

Texas nominated 26 schools for the award, which recognizes schools for their progress and academic excellence. Briscoe was given the nod in the improving schools category. Only 39 percent of its students passed state tests in 2008, and that number jumped to 79 percent last year, according to the media outlet.

An additional reason for the success has been the launch of various programs, including the Urban Life Boys Club.

"These programs have made a huge difference," Pamela Bennett, whose two children attended the school, told the news source. "A lot of students wouldn't be able to travel or get help with their assignments, especially our young men. A lot of times, boys fall through the cracks. We are trying to mentor them and take them different places so they know that someone cares about them."