(Washington, DC) – Today, Mayor Bowser announced that five schools in Washington, DC were recognized as 2019 National Blue Ribbon Schools by the U.S. Department of Education. The recognition honors the overall academic performance or progress each school has demonstrated in closing achievement gaps. The honored schools are: Alice Deal Middle School, Blessed Sacrament Elementary School, John W. Ross Elementary School, KIPP DC Heights Academy, and Saint Peter School, Capitol Hill.
“To be honored as a National Blue Ribbon School is a testament to the dedication and commitment among the educators and students at these extraordinary DC schools,” said Mayor Bowser. “We thank all of our teachers, students, and parents for continuing to make every day count and putting our young people on a pathway to long-term success.”
The five schools vary across each education sector – public, charter, private, or parochial – as the Department of Education looks at the graduation rates, student scores on state assessments or national standardized tests and student subgroup scores. Overall, the federal agency recognized 362 schools. Up to 420 schools may be nominated each year.
“This is a tremendous honor as it places a national spotlight on our neighborhood schools and public school of choice,” said Deputy Mayor for Education Paul Kihn. “We are proud of all of our young scholars as this recognition showcases the District’s efforts in creating and expanding meaningful opportunities for students as we work to close the achievement gap.”
On November 14 and 15, the U.S. Department of Education will celebrate honorees at an awards ceremony in Washington, DC.