National Blue Ribbon Schools

10/1/2024

Fourteen Ohio Schools named 2024 National Blue Ribbon Schools

Last week, the U.S. Department of Education recognized 356 schools as National Blue Ribbon Schools for 2024, including 14 schools in Ohio. This prestigious recognition highlights schools that excel in academic performance or make significant strides in closing achievement gaps among different student groups.

The Ohio schools named as National Blue Ribbon Schools are: 

• Ashland – Reagan Elementary School, Ashland City

• Broadview Heights – Brecksville-Broadview Heights High School, Brecksville-Broadview Heights City

• Chagrin Falls – Chagrin Falls Middle School, Chagrin Falls Exempted Village 

• Columbiana – Columbiana South Side Middle School, Columbiana Exempted Village

• Columbus Grove – Columbus Grove Elementary School, Columbus Grove Local 

• Creston – Norwayne Elementary School, Norwayne Local

• Fort Loramie – Fort Loramie Junior-Senior High School, Fort Loramie Local

• Hamilton – Morgan Elementary School, Ross Local Schools 

• Logan – Chieftain Elementary School, Logan-Hocking Local

• Massillon – Tuslaw Middle School, Tuslaw Local Schools

• Shadyside – Leona Ave Middle Schools, Shadyside Local

• Steubenville – Harding Middle School, Steubenville City

• Westerville – Whittier Elementary School, Westerville City

• Willoughby Hills – School of Innovation, Willoughby-Eastlake City Schools

The U.S. Department of Education recognizes all schools based on student performance data including assessment results, student subgroup performance, and graduation rates. Schools are recognized in both or either of two performance categories:  

• Exemplary High Performing Schools: These schools are among the top performers in their state as measured by state assessments or nationally normed tests.  

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

All National Blue Ribbon Schools share some core elements. They are led by leaders who articulate a clear vision of instructional excellence and uphold high standards. They showcase effective teaching methods and offer robust professional development for their staff. Data-driven instruction is a hallmark, and there is a concerted effort to ensure every student succeeds. Collaboration among families, communities, and educators is a key component of their success. Each nominated school submits a comprehensive application detailing its school culture, programs, assessments, instructional practices, professional development, leadership, family, and community involvement.

Up to 420 schools may be nominated each year.