News Summary
Four schools in Connecticut have been awarded the Blue Ribbon recognition for outstanding achievement in student learning despite the federal program’s recent discontinuation. The honored schools include House of Arts, Letters, and Science Academy, Gildersleeve School, Green Acres Elementary School, and Weston Intermediate School. Connecticut continues to celebrate educational excellence, underscoring the commitment of local educators to improving student outcomes and closing achievement gaps through innovative practices, even in the face of reduced federal support.
New Britain, Connecticut — Four Schools Recognized with Blue Ribbon Awards Despite Federal Program Ending
Four schools in Connecticut have been honored with the Blue Ribbon designation this week, a recognition traditionally awarded to schools demonstrating outstanding achievement in student learning and closing achievement gaps. This recognition comes amid the recent discontinuation of the federal Blue Ribbon program by the Trump administration in August 2023.
Overview of the Blue Ribbon Program and Connecticut’s Recognition
The Blue Ribbon program, administered by the U.S. Department of Education, has historically celebrated schools that excel academically and serve diverse student populations. Despite the federal program ending, the state of Connecticut has continued to recognize its schools’ accomplishments. Connecticut’s Governor Ned Lamont announced in September that the state would honor the four schools selected by the U.S. Department of Education prior to the program’s termination.
The Schools Awarded and Recognition Categories
The four schools identified are:
- House of Arts, Letters, and Science (HALS) Academy in New Britain
- Gildersleeve School in Portland
- Green Acres Elementary School in North Haven
- Weston Intermediate School in Weston
The schools received their recognition in two categories:
- Exemplary High-Performing
- Exemplary Achievement Gap Closing
Notably, three of the four schools were honored in both categories, highlighting their consistent high level of performance and success in addressing educational disparities.
Criteria and Evaluation Process
The recognition was based on data from Connecticut’s next-generation accountability system. This comprehensive system evaluates multiple factors beyond standardized test scores to gauge student success, including growth metrics, student engagement, college and career readiness, and efforts to close achievement gaps.
Thoughts from Education and State Officials
Connecticut’s Education Commissioner Charlene Russell-Tucker emphasized the significance of such awards, especially considering the federal program’s discontinuation. The recognition showcases the strength and resilience of Connecticut’s public schools, even as federal support programs have been curtailed.
Lt. Gov. Susan Bysiewicz underscored the importance of celebrating excellence in public education, particularly during a time of federal program cuts. She highlighted how local schools are continuing to prioritize innovative teaching and student achievement.
Impact of Local Initiatives on Recognized Schools
The Gildersleeve School in Portland was specifically praised for its improvements tied to the School Improvement Grant. This federal aid allowed for additional staffing and program enhancements, which contributed to the school’s recognition. Portland Superintendent Charles Britton highlighted these efforts, noting their importance in fostering positive outcomes for students.
In Weston, Weston Intermediate School was recognized for its overall academic excellence. Former principal Patti Falber reiterated the importance of acknowledging schools that demonstrate high standards and robust achievement across diverse student groups.
Upcoming Celebrations and Notable Visitors
U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona, himself a native of Meriden and a former employee of Connecticut’s education system, is scheduled to visit Israel Putnam Elementary School in Meriden to honor its Blue Ribbon recognition in the Exemplary Achievement Gap Closing Schools category. This visit will serve to further highlight Connecticut’s ongoing commitment to excellence in education despite changes to federal programs.
Background and Context
While the Blue Ribbon program was officially terminated by the federal government, Connecticut’s decision to continue honoring recognized schools illustrates the state’s dedication to maintaining standards of excellence and celebrating success at the local level. The awards are based on multidimensional assessments, ensuring recognition of schools that are making meaningful progress in student achievement and equity.
As educational priorities evolve, Connecticut’s focus on recognizing high-performing schools and closing achievement gaps remains central to its educational strategy, reinforcing its commitment to providing quality education for all students.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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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 RALEIGH WRITER
RALEIGH STAFF WRITER The RALEIGH STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERERaleigh.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Raleigh, Wake 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 North Carolina State Fair, Raleigh Arts Festival, and the Hopscotch Music Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Raleigh Chamber of Commerce and Visit Raleigh, plus leading businesses in technology and education that power the local economy such as Red Hat and NC State University. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
