Minnesota's School Pride Soars with 7 National Blue Ribbon Awards

Minnesota's 356 schools that made it to the prestigious 2024 National Blue Ribbon Schools list are a testament to the dedication, hard work, and passion of educators and students. Among these outstanding institutions, seven Minnesota schools have earned the coveted recognition for their exceptional achievements. These schools have demonstrated remarkable academic performance or significant strides in narrowing achievement gaps between different student groups. The National Blue Ribbon Schools Award is indeed a badge of honor, as emphasized by U. S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona. This esteemed recognition motivates educators to continually push the boundaries, raising the bar for our nation's students. The seven Minnesota schools that made it to the list are spread across the state, each with its unique story to tell. Caledonia High School, located in the rural community of Caledonia, serves the nearby towns, while Chippewa Middle School caters to students from the northern suburbs of the Twin Cities. Franklin Elementary School in Mankato is known for its culturally and economically diverse community, while Hills-Beaver Creek Secondary School in southwest Minnesota serves approximately 200 students. James Knoll Elementary School in Ortonville prides itself on its small, close-knit community, Oakwood Elementary School in Plymouth is part of the Wayzata Public Schools, and Pioneer Elementary School in Pierz is a PK-6 school with a supportive small-town atmosphere. Each of these seven schools has received a flag to display in their entryway or on a flagpole, serving as a symbol of exceptional teaching and learning. This recognition not only brings pride to the schools but also encourages them to continue striving for academic excellence.