The U.S. Department of Education has announced the recognition of 356 schools as part of the 2024 cohort of National Blue Ribbon Schools. This honor is given to schools that demonstrate high academic performance or make significant progress in closing achievement gaps among different student groups.

"The National Blue Ribbon Schools Award is a testament to the exceptional achievements of students and educators at each of these schools," said U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona. "The 2024 National Blue Ribbon Schools are raising the bar for our nation’s students, serving as models for effective teaching and intentional collaboration in their schools and communities. As we celebrate their achievements, let us look to these schools for inspiration as we champion education as the foundation of a brighter future for every child."

The recognized schools reflect the diversity of American education, serving students from various backgrounds. These schools share several key characteristics: leadership with a clear vision for instructional excellence, high standards, effective teaching methods, robust professional development, data-driven instruction, and strong collaboration among families, communities, and educators.

A National Blue Ribbon School award flag displayed in a school’s entryway or on a flagpole symbolizes exceptional teaching and learning practices. These schools act as models for innovative educational practices nationwide.

Schools are recognized based on student performance data including assessment results, student subgroup performance, and graduation rates. The awards fall into two categories:

- Exemplary High Performing Schools: These are top-performing schools in their state based on state assessments or nationally normed tests.

- Exemplary Achievement Gap Closing Schools: These excel in narrowing achievement gaps between different student groups and the overall student body.

Each nominated school submits an application detailing its culture, programs, assessments, instructional practices, professional development, leadership, family involvement, and community engagement.

Up to 420 schools can be nominated annually. Nominations come from top education officials across all states, the District of Columbia, U.S. territories, the Department of Defense Education Activity, and the Bureau of Indian Education. Private school nominations are managed by the Council for American Private Education.

Photographs and brief descriptions of the 2024 National Blue Ribbon Schools are available at https://nationalblueribbonschools.ed.gov/.