The National PTA recognized Hickory Flat ES as a 2015-2017 National PTA School of Excellence for its significant progress to welcome and empower families to support student success and school improvements during the course of the 2014-15 school year.

The past school years accomplishments that led to this recognition included, but are not limited to: launching the school-wide and community-wide #BeKind initiative, achieving 100% PTA membership, establishing a new PTA Welcoming Committee, and hosting community events, including a new Veterans Day Appreciation Ceremony and a Back to School Picnic.