STAFF REPORTS
WASHINGTON, D.C.—
U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona recently recognized 356 schools as the 2024 cohort of National Blue Ribbon Schools. This prestigious recognition highlights schools that excel in academic performance or make significant strides in closing achievement gaps among different student groups.
The National Blue Ribbon Schools Award is a testament to the exceptional achievements of students and educators at each of these schools, according to a letter shared by Jayton-Girard ISD superintendent Scott Bicknell citing the recognition. “The 2024 National Blue Ribbon Schools are raising the bar for our nation’s students, serving as models for effective teaching and intentional collaboration in their schools and communities. As we celebrate their achievements, let us look to these schools for inspiration as we champion education as the foundation of a brighter future for every child.”
Other information about the program was shared in the letter as well.
The 2024 National Blue Ribbon Schools reflect the full diversity of American Education and serve students fromallbackgrounds, according to the organization’s press release. While awardees represent a wide array of schools, they share common traits. National Blue Ribbon Schools are led by leaders who articulate a clear vision of instructional excellence and uphold high standards. They showcase effective teaching methods and offer robust professional development for their staff. Data-driven instruction isa hallmark, and there isa concerted effort to ensure every student succeeds. Collaboration among families, communities, and educators is a key component of their success.
A National Blue Ribbon School award flag displayed in a school’s entryway or on a flagpole is a widely recognized emblem of exceptional teaching and learning. These schools serve as models of effective and innovative practices for educators across the nation. The Department of Education recognizes all schools based on student performancedataincluding assessment results, student subgroup performance and graduation rates. Schools are recognized in both or either of two performance categories:
• Exemplary High Performing Schools: These schools are among the top performers in their state as measured by state assessments or nationally normed tests.
• Exemplary Achievement Gap Closing Schools: These schools excel in narrowing achievement gaps between differet student groups and the overall student body.
• Each nominated school submits a comprehensive
its school culture, curriculum. assessments, instructional practices, professional development, leadership, family, and community involvement.
Upto420schoolsmaybe nominated each year, the release said. The Department of Education invites nominations for the National Blue Ribbon Schools award from the top education official in all states, the District of Columbia, U.S. territories, the Department of Defense Education Activity, and the Bureau of Indian Education. Private schools are nominated by the Council for American Private Education.
Photographs and brief descriptions of the 2024 National Blue Ribbon Schools are available at https://nationalblueribbonschools.
