Schaffner Traditional Elementary Named A Blue Ribbon School

JCPS elementary school one of 329 nationwide to earn distinction by U.S. Education Secretary

Today Jefferson County Public Schools (JCPS) Superintendent Dr. Donna Hargens announced that Schaffner Traditional Elementary has been selected as a Blue Ribbon School by the U.S. Education Secretary.  The award, given to 329 schools across the country, is based on the school’s overall academic excellence or progress in closing achievement gaps among student subgroups.

“I am proud to lead a school district that is focused on raising the achievement of every child in every school,” said Dr. Hargens.  “Congratulations to Principal Phil Poore and his teachers for achieving this prestigious honor for our district.”

The National Blue Ribbon Schools Program honors public and private elementary, middle and high schools where students achieve very high learning standards or are making notable improvements in closing the achievement gap. The award affirms the hard work of students, educators, families and communities in creating safe and welcoming schools where students master challenging content.

“We are very excited to receive the 2016 National Blue Ribbon Award for excellence in education,” said Schaffner Principal Phil Poore. “This honor is a testament to the committed partnership between our parents, our staff and our students for the success of all.”

All schools are recognized 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 subgroups and all students over the past five years.

The National Blue Ribbon Schools flag gracing a school’s building is a widely recognized symbol of exemplary teaching and learning. National Blue Ribbon Schools are an inspiration and a model for schools still striving for excellence.

Now in its 34th year, the National Blue Ribbon Schools Program has bestowed this coveted award on fewer than 8,500 schools. On Nov. 7 and 8, the department will formally recognize the 279 public and 50 private schools at an awards ceremony in Washington, D.C.

The department invites National Blue Ribbon School nominations from the top education official in all states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, the Department of Defense Education Activity and the Bureau of Indian Education. The Council for American Private Education (CAPE) nominates private schools. A total of 420 schools nationwide may be nominated each year.