The quest for excellence is not always easy. That’s what makes public education such a demanding job for teachers and administrators.

But we must take a moment to stop and say thank you to all who make our schools in Oxford and Lafayette so outstanding.

The new report cards released this week scored Oxford Schools with another A and Lafayette Schools with a B for the 2015-2016 year and that is quite an achievement.

To have both our public school systems excelling above average is outstanding.

It is notable that Lafayette superintendent Adam Pugh says they won’t be “happy until we’re an A,” but it is worth mentioning that the consensus in the community is that Lafayette Schools are marching strong toward that endeavor.

It is also notable that Oxford Schools are one of just 14 districts in the state to achieve the coveted A rating. The work done by superintendent Bryan Harvey, teachers, support staff and school board members is something to celebrate.

We don’t merely have good schools in Oxford. We in Oxford have the best schools in the state.

Sure, there’s more work to be done. But let’s pause and say a hearty thank you to all who make it happen at Oxford and Lafayette schools.