Celebrating Excellence in Education: Texas Schools Recognized as National Blue Ribbon Schools for 2024
In a significant announcement that underscores the commitment to educational excellence, the U.S. Department of Education has recognized 356 schools across the nation as the 2024 cohort of National Blue Ribbon Schools. Among these, 31 schools hail from Texas, showcasing the state’s dedication to fostering high academic standards and closing achievement gaps among diverse student populations.
What is the National Blue Ribbon Schools Program?
The National Blue Ribbon Schools Program is a prestigious recognition that honors schools demonstrating exceptional academic performance or making notable progress in bridging achievement gaps among various student groups. This program serves as a beacon of excellence, highlighting institutions that not only excel in standardized assessments but also create inclusive environments conducive to learning for all students.
Texas Schools Honored in 2024
The list of Texas schools awarded the National Blue Ribbon Schools designation is a testament to the hard work and dedication of educators, students, and communities across the state. The honored schools include:
- Archer City: Archer City Elementary School, Archer City ISD
- Booker: Bob L. Kirksey Elementary School, Booker ISD
- Brownsville: BRYSS Academy, Raul Yzaguirre Schools for Success
- Dallas: St. Philip’s School & Community Center
- De Leon: De Leon High School, De Leon Independent School District
- Farmers Branch: Dave Blair Elementary School, Carrollton-Farmers Branch ISD
- Flatonia: Flatonia Elementary School, Flatonia ISD
- Galveston: Ambassadors Preparatory Academy
- Gruver: Gruver High School, Gruver ISD
- Hillsboro: Hillsboro Junior High School, Hillsboro ISD
- Houston: Alief Early College High School, Alief ISD
- Houston: Christ the Redeemer Catholic School, Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston
- Houston: Saint John Paul II Catholic School, Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston
- Hurst: Grapevine-Colleyville Collegiate Academy at Tarrant County College Northeast
- Jayton: Jayton Schools, Jayton-Girard ISD
- Laredo: Abraham Kazen Elementary School, United ISD
- Laredo: Jesus A. Kawas Elementary School, Laredo ISD
- Longview: Hudson Elementary School, Longview ISD
- Lubbock: Rise Academy
- Mertzon: Irion County High School, Irion County ISD
- Nazareth: Nazareth School, Nazareth ISD
- Palestine: Neches High School, Neches ISD
- Pearland: St. Helen Catholic School, Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston
- Plano: Saint Mark the Evangelist Catholic School, Diocese of Dallas
- Quanah: Quanah High School, Quanah ISD
- Roma: Florence J. Scott Elementary School, Roma ISD
- San Antonio: Robert B. Green Elementary at Riverside Park, San Antonio ISD
- Tyler: Caldwell Arts Academy, Tyler ISD
- Vanderbilt: Industrial Junior High School, Industrial ISD
- Whitehouse: Gus Winston Cain Elementary School, Whitehouse ISD
- Whitewright: Whitewright Middle School, Whitewright ISD
The Significance of the Award
U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona emphasized the importance of this recognition, stating, “The National Blue Ribbon Schools Award is a testament to the exceptional achievements of students and educators at each of these schools.” He noted that these schools are not just raising the bar for academic performance but are also serving as models for effective teaching and collaboration within their communities.
The 2024 cohort of National Blue Ribbon Schools reflects the rich diversity of American education, serving students from various backgrounds. While each school is unique, they share common traits: strong leadership, a clear vision for instructional excellence, and a commitment to high standards. These schools employ effective teaching methods and prioritize professional development for their staff, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to succeed.
Criteria for Recognition
The selection process for National Blue Ribbon Schools is rigorous and data-driven. Schools are evaluated based on student performance data, including assessment results, subgroup performance, and graduation rates. They can be recognized in one of two categories:
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Exemplary High Performing Schools: These schools rank among the top performers in their state, as measured by state assessments or nationally normed tests.
- Exemplary Achievement Gap Closing Schools: These institutions excel in narrowing achievement gaps between different student groups and the overall student body.
To be considered for this honor, each nominated school submits a comprehensive application detailing its culture, programs, assessments, instructional practices, professional development, leadership, and community involvement.
The Path to Recognition
Each year, up to 420 schools may be nominated for the National Blue Ribbon Schools award. Nominations come from the top education officials 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.
Once awarded, schools proudly display the National Blue Ribbon School flag, a symbol of their commitment to exceptional teaching and learning. This recognition not only honors the achievements of the schools but also serves as an inspiration for educators nationwide, encouraging the adoption of effective and innovative practices in education.
The National Blue Ribbon Schools program continues to shine a light on the remarkable efforts of schools across the country, celebrating those that are making a profound impact on the lives of their students and communities.