U. S. Secretary of Education Announces 2019 National Blue Ribbon Schools
U.S. Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos today recognized Bloom-Vernon Elementary among the 362 schools as a National Blue Ribbon School for 2019. The recognition is based on the overall academic performance and progress of Bloom-Vernon Elementary in closing achievement gaps among student subgroups.
“We recognize and honor your important work in preparing students for successful careers and meaningful lives” said U.S. Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos in a video message to the honorees. “As a National Blue Ribbon School, your school demonstrates what is possible when committed educators hold all students and staff to high standards and create vibrant, innovative cultures of teaching and learning.”
The coveted National Blue Ribbon Schools award affirms the hard work of educators, families and communities in creating safe and welcoming schools where students master challenging and engaging content.
Now in its 37th year, the National Blue Ribbon Schools Program has bestowed recognition on more than 9,000 schools. On November 14 and 15, the Secretary and the Department of Education will celebrate with 312 public and 50 non-public school honorees at an awards ceremony in Washington, D.C.
“We are extremely proud of the students and staff at Bloom-Vernon Elementary for being recognized as a National Blue Ribbon School.” expressed Superintendent Marc Kreischer. “Our entire district staff works hard to educate and nurture students academically, socially, and emotionally every day.”
The Department recognizes all schools in one of two performance categories, based on all student scores, student subgroup scores and graduation rates:
∙Exemplary High Performing Schools are among their state’s highest performing schools as measured by state assessments or nationally normed tests.
∙Exemplary Achievement Gap Closing Schools are among their state’s highest performing schools in closing achievement gaps between a school’s student groups and all students.
“Receiving the National Blue Ribbon School award to recognize the greatness that occurs within the walls of Bloom-Vernon Elementary is a high honor in education” stated Bloom-Vernon Elementary Principal Sandy Smith. “We're all ecstatic to say the least. There is something special at Bloom-Vernon Elementary, and it is often said by those who enter that it can be felt when you walk inside the doors. It is a special place. Our teachers want to work here, our kids want to come here.”