This year, the United States Department of Education will honor 236 public and 50 private schools at a recognition ceremony on November 18-19 in Washington, D.C. as Blue Ribbon Schools of Excellence.
“Excellence in education matters and we should honor the schools that are leading the way to prepare students for success in college and careers,” said Secretary Duncan. “National Blue Ribbon schools represent examples of educational excellence, and their work reflects the belief that every child in America deserves a world-class education.”
Four schools in the Archdiocese of Newark have been recognized as Exemplary High Performing Schools in 2013. These schools are as follows:
These four schools join seven schools that were awarded Blue Ribbon status in 2011, and two that were awarded Blue Ribbon status in 2012.
According to the United States Department of Education
Each year, National Blue Ribbon Schools shine under a national spotlight for all the right reasons. The award acknowledges and validates the hard work of students, educators, families, and communities in striving for—and attaining—exemplary achievement. For many, attaining the National Blue Ribbon School award is the realization of a long-held dream.National Blue Ribbon Schools serve as models for other schools throughout the nation, and school personnel are often sought out as mentors. Their applications are posted on the U.S. Department of Education’s website, and media eagerly profile recognized schools, helping the school, its district, and community gain additional exposure. Representatives from schools are honored at an annual awards ceremony held in Washington, DC. Each school receives an engraved plaque and program flag with the official seal which signifies its status and the year of its award.