Atlanta Academy News

U.S. Department of Education
Office of Communications & Outreach, Press Office
400 Maryland Ave., S.W.
Washington, D.C. 20202

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
1 p.m. ET
Sept. 23, 2024

CONTACT:
Press Office, (202) 401-1576 or press@ed.gov

U.S. Department of Education Announces 2024 National Blue Ribbon Schools

U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona today recognized 356 schools as the 2024 cohort of National Blue Ribbon Schools. This prestigious recognition highlights schools that excel in academic performance or make significant strides in closing achievement gaps among different student groups.

“The National Blue Ribbon Schools Award is a testament to the exceptional achievements of students and educators at each of these schools,” said U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona. “The 2024 National Blue Ribbon Schools are raising the bar for our nation’s students, serving as models for effective teaching and intentional collaboration in their schools and communities. As we celebrate their achievements, let us look to these schools for inspiration as we champion education as the foundation of a brighter future for every child.”

The 2024 National Blue Ribbon Schools reflect the full diversity of American education and serve students from all backgrounds. While awardees represent a wide array of schools, they share common traits. National Blue Ribbon Schools are led by leaders who articulate a clear vision of instructional excellence and uphold high standards. They showcase effective teaching methods and offer robust professional development for their staff. Data-driven instruction is a hallmark, and there is a concerted effort to ensure every student succeeds. Collaboration among families, communities, and educators is a key component of their success.

A National Blue Ribbon School award flag displayed in a school’s entryway or on a flagpole is a widely recognized emblem of exceptional teaching and learning. These schools serve as models of effective and innovative practices for educators across the nation.

The Department recognizes all schools based on student performance data including assessment results, student subgroup performance and graduation rates. Schools are recognized in both or either of two performance categories:

• Exemplary High Performing Schools: These schools are among the top performers in their state as measured by state assessments or nationally normed tests.
• Exemplary Achievement Gap Closing Schools: These schools excel in narrowing achievement gaps between different student groups and the overall student body.

Each nominated school submits a comprehensive application detailing its school culture, programs, assessments, instructional practices, professional development, leadership, family, and community involvement.

Up to 420 schools may be nominated each year. The Department invites nominations for the National Blue Ribbon Schools award from the top education official in all states, the District of Columbia, U.S. territories, the Department of Defense Education Activity, and the Bureau of Indian Education. Private schools are nominated by the Council for American Private Education.

NOTE TO EDITORS: Photographs and brief descriptions of the 2024 National Blue Ribbon Schools are available at https://nationalblueribbonschools.ed.gov/.

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Mrs. Shore's 8th-grade art students announced their partnership with Pianos for Peace for their 2024 Legacy project! Our students are painting and donating a piano to the local community to make the arts accessible to all and spread peace through music and education. We’re so proud of their creativity and global impact! Watch more here.

How sweet it was to see our 4th and 5th graders shine at the 20th Anniversary of Miss Mary's Ice Cream Crankin, benefiting The Drake House in Roswell, GA! A huge congratulations to them for scooping up 1st place!

We're incredibly proud to be part of this cherished tradition, supporting a wonderful cause and making a positive impact in our community. Kudos to our amazing Mini-Middle students and dedicated faculty for all their hard work!

Congratulations to our Atlanta Academy Girls' A Team for winning the MAAC League Championship for the second year in a row!