Southern Valley Elementary School near Oxford is being recognized by the U.S. Department of Education as one of 356 schools across the nation as a Blue Ribbon School. Three other Blue Ribbon Schools in Nebraska include Elkhorn Grandview Middle School and Wilma Upchurch Elementary School in Omaha and West Point Elementary School.
The prestigious recognition highlights schools that excel in academic performance or make significant strides in closing achievement gaps among different student groups.
In their Blue Ribbon application, Southern Valley lists several inintiatives that contribute to their sucess including: engagement of students, familes and community, creating a professional culture and school leadership. They also described various academic supports to assist students performing below grade level and students performing above grade level as will as students with disabilities and english language learners.
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, according to the National Department of Education.
The National Blue Ribbon Schools Award is a testament to the exceptional achievements of students and educators at each of these schools,” said U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona. “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.”
The 2024 National Blue Ribbon Schools reflect the full diversity of American education and serve students from all backgrounds. 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 is a hallmark, and there is a concerted effort to ensure every student succeeds. Collaboration among families, communities, and educators is a key component of their success.
The Department recognizes all schools based on student performance data including assessment results, student subgroup performance and graduation rates. Schools are recognized in both or either of two performance categories:
Up to 420 schools may be nominated each year. The Department 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.
