McCracken County's Lone Oak Elementary School is one of five Kentucky public schools that have earned the U.S. Department of Education's 2024 National Blue Ribbon Schools distinction aimed at honoring high-performing schools, the school district announced Monday.
The school will hold an assembly for students on Tuesday. Other Kentucky schools to earn the distinction were Corbin Middle School in the Corbin Independent district, Cold Hill Elementary School in Laurel County, Northern Elementary School in Pulaski County, Shirley Mann Elementary School in Boone County, and two private schools, the school's news release said.
According to the McCracken County School District, 356 schools nationwide earned the National Blue Ribbon Schools award for 2024. Schools that earn the distinction serve as models for effective school policies and practices.
“I congratulate and thank our newest Blue Ribbon Schools for their hard work to ensure every student has the skills they need for a successful future,” said Kentucky Commissioner of Education Robbie Fletcher. “This award highlights the commitment to excellence that teachers, staff, families and communities have, as well as their dedication to be ‘All In’ for their students.”
An awards ceremony will be held later in the school year in Washington, D.C., for schools that have earned the distinction.
“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.”
The award is open to public and nonpublic schools and serves to honor schools for high academic performance and schools that works to close achievement gaps, according to its website.