Five Colorado schools have been recognized as National Blue Ribbon Schools, an awards program recognizing K-12 schools where students achieve high learning standards and make notable improvements in closing achievement gaps.
The five schools honored are:
- Kendrick Lakes Elementary in Lakewood (Jeffco Public Schools)
- Swigert International (Denver Public Schools)
- Tavelli Elementary (Poudre School District)
- Willow Creek Elementary (Cherry Creek School District)
- Zach Elementary (Poudre School District)
"We recognize and honor your important work in preparing students for successful careers and meaningful lives," U.S. Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos said. "Congratulations on your students' accomplishments and for your extraordinary commitment to meeting their unique needs."
National Blue Ribbon Schools are honored in one of two performance categories based on student test scores and subgroup scores on state assessments, as well as graduation rates.
“Exemplary High Performing,” are schools recognized as high-performing as measured by state assessments or nationally normed tests.
"Exemplary Improving" are schools where at least 40 percent of students from disadvantaged backgrounds demonstrate the most progress in improving student achievement levels as measured by state assessments or nationally normed tests.
"I am extremely proud of the success of these schools and the hard work being done by their staff, students and families," said Colorado Education Commissioner Katy Anthes . "This award recognizes their dedication, compassion and commitment to making sure every child has an opportunity to succeed."
The National Blue Ribbon Schools Program, now in its 36th year, has recognized more than 8,500 schools. Sec. DeVos and the U.S. Department of Education on Nov. 7-8 will celebrate with honorees at an awards ceremony in Washington, D.C.
