Graduating seniors at a Memphis, Tenn. high school have won a commencement address from President Barack Obama because of their academic achievements.

The White House says Booker T. Washington High School improved its graduation rate from 55 percent in 2007 to more than 80 percent in 2010. That improvement helped them win the administration’s Race to the Top High School Commencement Challenge.

Vice President Joe Biden called the school’s principal Tuesday to congratulate her on winning. The goal of the competition is to challenge schools to demonstrate their commitment to preparing students for college and careers. 

The White House said more details on when Obama would speak at the school would be released soon.