From Roanoke County Public Schools: ROANOKE – U.S. Secretary of Education John B. King Jr. today announced the 329 National Blue Ribbon Schools for 2016. Green Valley Elementary School was recognized as one of the 2016 Blue Ribbon Schools. The award is based on a school’s overall academic excellence or progress in closing achievement gaps among student subgroups.
“National Blue Ribbon Schools are proof that we can prepare every child for college and meaningful careers, King said in a video message to honorees. “Your schools are on the cutting edge, pioneering innovative educational practices-professional learning communities, project-based learning, social and emotional learning, positive behavior systems-making you shining examples for your communities, your state and the nation.”
“I’m extremely proud of the students, teachers, parents and administrators at Green Valley,” said Roanoke County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Greg Killough. “It takes a team of great leaders, great teachers, great students and great parents to make a great school. Green Valley has a great team and I’m so pleased they have earned this high distinction,” Dr. Killough said.
The National Blue Ribbon Schools Program honors public and private elementary, middle, and high schools where students achieve very high learning standards or are making notable improvements in closing the achievement gap. The award affirms the hard work of students, educators, families, and communities in creating safe and welcoming schools where students master challenging content. 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.
Now in its 34th year, the National Blue Ribbon Schools Program has bestowed this coveted award on fewer than 8,500 schools. On Nov. 7 and 8, the Department will formally recognize the 279 public and 50 private schools at an awards ceremony in Washington, D.C.
