News Summary
Four schools in Connecticut have received prestigious Blue Ribbon designations for their impressive achievements in student learning. This recognition comes shortly after the federal Blue Ribbon program was suspended in August. The selected schools, including HALS Academy and Gildersleeve School, excelled in Exemplary High-Performing and Achievement Gap Closing categories. State officials emphasize the value of celebrating local educational achievements amidst federal program cuts, showcasing the commitment to continuous improvement and academic excellence in Connecticut.
Connecticut Schools Achieve Blue Ribbon Designations Despite Federal Program’s End
Connecticut has announced that four schools across the state have received the prestigious Blue Ribbon designations, which honors educational institutions for their significant achievements in student learning. This recognition comes shortly after the federal Blue Ribbon program was suspended by the Trump administration in August 2023.
The four Connecticut schools recognized this year include the House of Arts, Letters, and Science (HALS) Academy in New Britain, Gildersleeve School in Portland, Green Acres Elementary School in North Haven, and Weston Intermediate School in Weston. These schools achieved recognition in two categories: Exemplary High-Performing and Exemplary Achievement Gap Closing. Notably, three of the four honored institutions were acknowledged in both categories, showcasing their comprehensive excellence.
Education Commissioner Charlene Russell-Tucker highlighted that the schools were nominated based on evaluations stemming from Connecticut’s next-generation accountability system. This system goes beyond merely assessing test scores; it encompasses a wider range of factors to determine student success and overall school performance.
State Recognition and Community Impact
State Board of Education Vice Chair Erin Benham expressed satisfaction in recognizing Connecticut’s exemplary schools despite the federal program’s conclusion. In September, Governor Ned Lamont announced that the state would continue to honor the four schools selected by the federal Department of Education, underscoring the importance of celebrating educational achievements at a local level.
In Portland, Charles Britton, the Superintendent, underscored the strides made by Gildersleeve School, crediting the School Improvement Grant for enabling additional staffing and the enhancement of educational outcomes. This funding has played a crucial role in elevating academic performance and student success in the school.
Celebrating Academic Excellence
Former principal of Weston Intermediate School, Patti Falber, emphasized the importance of acknowledging academic excellence. Recognition of institutions like hers not only celebrates past accomplishments but also inspires continued efforts toward educational improvement. This sense of pride in local achievements is echoed by Lieutenant Governor Susan Bysiewicz, who has stressed the importance of celebrating the excellence of public education, especially in light of federal program cuts.
The U.S. Secretary of Education, Miguel Cardona, who is also a Meriden native and has deep ties to Connecticut’s educational landscape, will visit Israel Putnam Elementary School in Meriden. This school has been recognized in the Exemplary Achievement Gap Closing Schools category and will be celebrated on a separate occasion. Cardona’s visit highlights the ongoing commitment to recognizing and supporting schools that excel in bridging achievement gaps and fostering success among all students.
Conclusion
The achievement of these Connecticut schools serves as a beacon of academic excellence amid challenges at the federal level. The Blue Ribbon designation not only signifies high performance but also reflects dedication to closing achievement gaps, fostering an environment where every student can thrive. The state and local leaders remain committed to building upon these successes, ensuring continued progress in education throughout Connecticut.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Arizona Faces School Closure Crisis Amid Funding Issues
Chamlian Armenian School Faces Cancellation of Blue Ribbon Recognition
Additional Resources
- CT News Junkie
- Wikipedia: Blue Ribbon Schools Program
- CT Insider
- Google Search: Blue Ribbon Schools Connecticut
- WFSB
- Google Scholar: Connecticut education awards
- Fox 61
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Education
- CT Post
- Google News: Connecticut schools recognition
Author: STAFF HERE INDIANAPOLIS WRITER
The INDIANAPOLIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIndianapolis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Indianapolis, Marion County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Indianapolis 500, Indy Jazz Fest, and the Indiana State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Indy Chamber and Visit Indy, plus leading businesses in motorsports and healthcare that power the local economy such as Indianapolis Motor Speedway and IU Health. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Indiana's dynamic landscape.
