ALBANY, Ga. – For the second time in 17 years, Robert A. Cross Middle Magnet School has been named a National Blue Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education.
This prestigious award is given to schools that demonstrate excellence in academics, school leadership, and student achievement.
The school was named Tuesday by U.S. Secretary of Education Dr. Miguel Cardona.
The National Blue Ribbon Schools Program was established in 1982 to identify and celebrate schools that are performing at a high level or have made significant progress in closing achievement gaps. To be eligible for the award, schools must meet rigorous criteria, including high academic achievement, strong school leadership, and a commitment to equity and excellence for all students.
“We are honored to be recognized as a National Blue Ribbon School,” said Dr. Thelma Chunn, principal of Robert Cross Middle Magnet School. “This award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our students, teachers, staff, and parents. We are committed to providing our students with the highest quality education possible, and we are proud of the achievements of our school community.”
The U.S. Department of Education will recognize Robert A. Cross Middle Magnet School and the other 294 National Blue Ribbon Schools at a ceremony in Washington, D.C., in November.
Superintendent Kenneth Dyer was elated at the news.
“This is a tremendous achievement by both students and staff at Robert Cross,” Dyer said. “What’s been known by us for a while is now known to the world that Robert Cross is among the best schools in the country.”
This is the second time Robert Cross has been named a National Blue Ribbon School. The last time was in 2006.
The National Blue Ribbon Schools Program was established in 1982 by the U.S. Department of Education to recognize schools that are academically successful or that have made significant progress in closing achievement gaps. The program is open to all public and private schools in the United States.
To be eligible for the National Blue Ribbon Schools Program, schools must meet rigorous criteria, including:
High academic achievement: Schools must demonstrate high levels of student achievement on state-required assessments.
Strong school leadership: Schools must have a strong principal and other school leaders who are committed to excellence and equity.
A commitment to equity and excellence for all students: Schools must serve all students well, regardless of their background or circumstances.
Schools that are selected for the National Blue Ribbon Schools Program receive a plaque and a flag, and they are invited to attend a ceremony in Washington, D.C.