PLEASANT HILL, Calif., October 6, 2020—Two Contra Costa County schools have been chosen as 2020 National Blue Ribbon Schools, State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond announced recently. During his proclamation, Thurmond congratulated 33 California public schools that have been chosen. This prestigious award honors public and private elementary, middle, and high schools that close achievement and opportunity gaps and where students achieve high learning standards.
“Congratulations to these schools for creating and sustaining tremendous programs that allow students to reach their full potential, leading to a successful future,” Thurmond said. “This recognition is well-deserved, and these programs are a model of success that we can all look to in terms of ensuring that all students are thriving.”
Contra Costa County’s two schools honored with the prestigious award were:
· Green Valley Elementary School, Danville, San Ramon Valley Unified School District
· Hidden Hills Elementary School, San Ramon, San Ramon Valley Unified School District
“We would like to congratulate Green Valley Elementary and Hidden Hills Elementary Schools for receiving this national recognition,” Contra Costa County Superintendent of Schools Lynn Mackey said. “The National Blue Ribbon Schools award certainly confirms the hard work of students, families, and educators in creating safe and welcoming schools where students successfully master rigorous academic offerings.”
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.
Schools are recognized based on schoolwide student scores, academic performance of specific student groups, and graduation rates. They are among their state’s highest performing schools as measured by state assessments or national tests.
The award affirms the hard work of educators, families, and communities in creating safe and welcoming schools where students master challenging and engaging content. In its 38-year history, the National Blue Ribbon Schools Program has now presented this award to more than 9,000 schools.
Public schools are nominated by top education officials in each state, the Department of Defense Education Activity, and the Bureau of Indian Education. More information about the National Blue Ribbon Schools Program can be found on the U.S. Department of Education National Blue Ribbon Schools web page.