News and Events
Every year, the U.S. Department of Education seeks out and celebrates great American schools, schools demonstrating that all students can achieve at high levels. Since 1982, the National Blue Ribbon Schools Program has recognized public and private elementary, middle, and high schools based on their overall academic excellence or their progress in closing achievement gaps among student subgroups. Schools are nominated by the state department of education and then complete a comprehensive application about school practices. The coveted award affirms the hard work of students, educators, families, and communities in creating safe and welcoming schools where students master challenging and engaging content. The National Blue Ribbon School flag gracing an entry or flying overhead is a widely recognized symbol of exemplary teaching and learning.
“This year’s cohort of honorees demonstrates what is possible when committed educators and school leaders create vibrant, welcoming, and affirming school cultures where rich teaching and learning can flourish,” U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona remarked during his announcement today.
Upon learning of the award, Principal Dolley credited her entire team. “I am honored to be a part of this incredible community! It is a privilege to come to work each day and watch the Burton Valley students and staff support, teach, and grow with each other every single day. A well-deserved award; one that we will continue to celebrate with pride!”
Superintendent Richard Whitmore congratulated Burton Valley and Principal Meredith Dolley, observing that “the rigorous instructional leadership and attention to social and emotional learning at Burton Valley with a spirit of continuous improvement makes this award richly deserved.”
The two-day awards ceremony will be held on Thursday November 4 and Friday November 5 at the Gaylord National Conference Center in National Harbor, MD.
For more information about Burton Valley Elementary School, please contact the school office at (915) 927-3550. For more information, please visit the National Blue Ribbon Schools program website.
Congratulations to Casey Bowles, 3rd grade teacher at Springhill Elementary, who is this year's Teacher of the Year!
