WISCONSIN — Eight Wisconsin schools were named National Blue Ribbon Schools for 2023 on Tuesday.
The U.S. Department of Education recognized 353 schools across the country with the honor, which is “based on a school’s overall academic performance or progress in closing achievement gaps among student subgroups on assessments.”
The following Wisconsin schools received the distinction:
- Appleton – Houdini Elementary School, Appleton Area School District
- Brookfield – Brookfield East High School, Elmbrook School District
- Darlington – Darlington Elementary/Middle School, Darlington Community School District
- Fond Du Lac – Evans Elementary School, Fond du Lac School District
- Janesville – Monroe Elementary School, School of Janesville
- Manitowish Waters – North Lakeland Elementary School, North Lakeland School District
- New Richmond – New Richmond Paperjack Elementary School, New Richmond
- Saint Francis – Willow Glen Primary School, Saint Francis School District
National Blue Ribbon Schools fall into one of two performance categories: Exemplary Achievement Gap-Closing Schools and Exemplary High-Performing Schools.
According to the U.S. Department of Education, Exemplary Achievement Gap-Closing Schools "are among their state’s highest performing schools" when in comes to closing achievement gaps between all students and the school's student groups. Schools that are nominated for the award complete a narrative application which outlines the school's culture. philosophy, curriculum, assessments, instructional practices, professional development, leadership structures and parent and community involvement.
Exemplary High-Performing Schools, the department said, “are among their state’s highest performing schools as measured by state assessments or nationally formed tests. “
The U.S. Department of Education said all National Blue Ribbon Schools hold everyone to high standards, and their leaders “articulate a vision of excellence.” These schools are also effective and innovative when it comes to teaching and learning. National Blue Ribbon Schools all also value and support teachers and school staff and provide professional learning.
“The honorees for our 2023 National Blue Ribbon Schools Award have set a national example for what it means to ‘Raise the Bar’ in education,” said U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona. “The leaders, educators and staff at our National Blue Ribbon Schools continually inspire me with their dedication to fostering academic excellence and building positive school cultures that support students of all backgrounds to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
"As the Biden-Harris Administration partners with states and schools to accelerate academic success and transform educational opportunity in this country, we take tremendous pride in the achievements of these schools and their commitment to empowering educators, serving students, and engaging families.”
The 2023 honorees mark the 40th cohort of National Blue Ribbon Schools; more than 9,700 schools have been recognized over the decades. Up to 420 schools can receive the award every year.
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