The U.S. Department of Education has recently recognized seven schools across Louisiana as 2024 National Blue Ribbon Schools, according to this news release from the Louisiana Department Of Education. This prestigious award is granted to schools that demonstrate academic excellence or make significant progress in closing achievement gaps among various student groups. The schools recognized in Louisiana this year are from six parishes: Calcasieu, East Baton Rouge, Iberia, Ouachita, Rapides, and St. Tammany.

Louisiana State Superintendent of Education Dr. Cade Brumley expressed his admiration for the schools’ achievements, noting that being named a National Blue Ribbon School is a remarkable accomplishment that signifies a steadfast commitment to academic success. He emphasized the role that students, educators, and families play in setting and maintaining these high standards of excellence.

The seven schools honored with the 2024 National Blue Ribbon title are spread across the state and represent a diverse mix of public and non-public institutions. These schools are:

• Mayfair Laboratory School in East Baton Rouge Parish
• Saint Aloysius School, a Catholic school in the Diocese of Baton Rouge
• Delcambre Elementary School from Iberia Parish
• S. Cooley Elementary Magnet School located in Calcasieu Parish
• Woodlake Elementary School from the St. Tammany Parish Public Schools
• Sterlington Elementary School in Ouachita Parish
• Caroline Dorman Junior High School in Rapides Parish

Being awarded the National Blue Ribbon is more than just a badge of honor—it’s a symbol of outstanding teaching and learning practices. The flag, which is often displayed in the school’s entryway or on its flagpole, is recognized across the country as an emblem of exceptional education. This recognition not only honors the achievements of the specific schools but also allows them to serve as role models for others nationwide.

The National Blue Ribbon Schools Program, established in 1982, is one of the longest-running recognition programs of the U.S. Department of Education. Over the decades, it has celebrated outstanding schools across the nation, both public and non-public, at the elementary, middle, and high school levels. The primary goal of the program is to identify schools that stand out due to their academic performance or their success in closing the achievement gap among students from different backgrounds.

The program has not only highlighted the best schools in the country but has also served as a platform for sharing best practices. These Lbest practices help educators and administrators nationwide learn from each other, creating a ripple effect that extends the benefits of the Blue Ribbon recognition far beyond the honored schools.

Each year, the U.S. Department of Education collaborates with state education departments to identify outstanding schools that are worthy of the Blue Ribbon title. Nominations are based on student academic achievement metrics and progress toward closing achievement gaps. After being nominated, schools go through a rigorous review process conducted by the U.S. Department of Education, where several hundred schools nationwide are ultimately awarded this esteemed recognition.

The recognition of these seven Louisiana schools as 2024 National Blue Ribbon Schools is a testament to the quality of education in the state and the commitment of educators, students, and families to achieving excellence. These schools, located across different parishes, have set the bar high, serving as examples of what is possible when communities come together to prioritize education.

By celebrating their successes, the U.S. Department of Education highlights not only the importance of academic performance but also the value of closing achievement gaps and ensuring that all students have access to high-quality education. These schools are models for others to follow, showcasing the impact that dedication and collaboration can have on student outcomes.

For more education-related information, click here.