The U.S. Department of Education today recognized 353 schools as National Blue Ribbon Schools for 2023. Church Hill Elementary School and Matapeake Elementary School were recognized for this prestigious honor. The recognition is based on overall academic performance or progress in closing achievement gaps among student groups on assessments.
“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 National Blue Ribbon School award affirms and validates the hard work of students, educators, families, and communities in striving for – and attaining – exemplary achievement. These schools represent the full diversity of American schools and serve students of every background. Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Patricia Saelens says, “This recognition serves as validation of our amazing schools serving students in Queen Anne’s County. We are honored to add Church Hill Elementary and Matapeake Elementary to such a prestigious list of the highest performing schools across our nation.”
While awardee schools represent the diverse fabric of American schools, they also share some core elements. National Blue Ribbon School leaders articulate a vision of excellence and hold everyone to high standards. They demonstrate effective and innovative teaching and learning, and the schools value and support teachers and staff through meaningful professional learning. Data from many sources are used to drive instruction and every student strives for success. Families, communities, and educators work together toward common goals.
The Department recognizes all schools in one of two performance categories, based on all student scores, subgroup student scores and graduation rates:
- Exemplary High-Performing Schools are among their state’s highest performing schools as measured by state assessments or nationally normed tests.
- Exemplary Achievement Gap-Closing Schools are among their state’s highest performing schools in closing achievement gaps between a school’s student groups and all students. Nominated schools also complete an extensive narrative application describing their school culture and philosophy, curriculum, assessments, instructional practices, professional development, leadership structures, and parent and community involvement.