KENTUCKY — Seven schools across Kentucky have been recognized as 2021 National Blue Ribbon Schools by the U.S. Department of Education, including five public schools. The program recognizes schools "based on their overall academic excellence or their progress in closing achievement gaps among student subgroups," according to the Department of Education's website.

The Kentucky schools that received the recognition include:

• Anchorage Public School in Anchorage
• Blessed Sacrament Elementary School in Fort Mitchell
• Gamaliel Elementary School in Gamaliel
• Greathouse Shryock Traditional School in Louisville
• Heath Elementary School in West Paducah
• Rosa Parks Elementary School in Lexington
• Saint Henry District High School in Erlanger

“The Blue Ribbon Awards give us a chance to show off to the rest of the country the great things that are happening in our public schools across the commonwealth,” said Commissioner of Education Jason Glass. “I want to thank the leaders, staff and teachers of our newest Blue Ribbon schools for all of their hard work and dedication to making sure each and every student has the skills they need for a successful future.”

Kentucky's schools are among 325 schools across the country to receive the Blue Ribbon recognition this year.

"This year's cohort of honorees demonstrates what is possible when committed educators and school leaders create vibrant, welcoming and affirming school cultures where rich teaching and learning can flourish," said Education Secretary Miguel Cardona. 

In 2020, 10 Kentucky schools were named Blue Ribbon schools.