Glenwood Elementary School in Oak Ridge will be named a National Blue Ribbon School for 2024, identifying the school as an Exemplary High Performing School, being among Tennessee’s highest performing schools as measured by state assessments or nationally normed tests.
Glenwood is one of 356 such schools across the nation, and one of six in Tennessee. Since 2017, Glenwood’s state ELA and math success rate has increased year-over-year, nearly doubling over the seven-year span. The school was named a Reward School for the last two years by the Tennessee Department of Education and was given an “A” rating in the state’s first year of the letter grade system. This is the second-consecutive year that an Oak Ridge School was recognized with the prestigious national honor, with Linden Elementary earning the recognition in 2023.
“I am so fortunate to lead a school of inspiring educators and students who show up every day with a dedication to raise the bar on achievement,” said Dr. Ginny Boles, Glenwood Elementary principal. “Our staff and their commitment to finding innovative, data-driven strategies to help students reach their full potential has allowed us to exceed our goals, year after year.”
According to the Department of Education, National Blue Ribbon School leaders “articulate a vision of excellence and hold everyone to high standards,” and also “demonstrate effective and innovative teaching and learning.” Boles joined Glenwood in 2021, and despite the challenges that the Covid pandemic presented in her first year, has seen annual growth in achievement from her students.
“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. As we celebrate their achievements, let us look to these schools for inspiration as we champion education as the foundation of a brighter future for every child.”
Representatives from this year’s National Blue Ribbon Schools will be recognized at a special two-day national award ceremony in Washington, D.C., November 7 – 8, 2024.