The U.S. Department of Education has recognized Scioto Ridge Elementary School with its most prestigious award.
U.S. Secretary of Education, John B. King Jr., announced today that Scioto Ridge Elementary has been named a National Blue Ribbon School, an honor awarded to a select number of schools nationwide.
The coveted award is given to schools where students either achieve very high learning standards or are making notable improvements in closing the achievement gap. Scioto Ridge Elementary School was recognized for its overall academic excellence. Schools are nominated for the award by the state department of education, and then complete a comprehensive application about school practices.
Scioto Ridge Elementary is one of only seven public schools in Ohio to receive the National Blue Ribbon School title this year. It is among just 279 public and 50 private schools receiving the honor nationwide. It is the first elementary school in the Olentangy Local School District to earn the Blue Ribbon designation and joins Olentangy High School and Liberty High School as the district’s other National Blue Ribbon award-winning schools.
“I could not be more proud of the students, staff and the entire Scioto Ridge community. This is a direct result of their hard work, support and dedication,” said Peggy McMurry, current director of curriculum for Olentangy Local Schools and former Scioto Ridge Elementary School principal. McMurry served as the school’s principal from the 2013-14 to the 2015-16 school year.
“The staff at Scioto Ridge breathes belief into their students, which inspires them to be willing to take risks, persevere, and to achieve their maximum potential,” McMurry said.
In his video announcement, King said the Blue Ribbon Schools are proof that we can prepare every child for college and meaningful careers.
“Your schools are on the cutting edge, pioneering innovative educational practices—professional learning communities, project-based learning, social and emotional learning, positive behavior systems—making you shining examples for your communities, your state and the nation,” King said.
As a National Blue Ribbon award winner, Scioto Ridge Elementary School will receive a plaque that affirms the achievement of students, educators, families and the school community. In addition, the school will receive a Blue Ribbon flag to serve as a symbol of the exemplary teaching and learning that takes place at Scioto Ridge Elementary School.
