By Ryan Spoehr
Editor
Washington Elementary was one of eight Wisconsin schools to be nominated for the National Blue Ribbon Award, an award that recognizes overall academic excellence or progress in student achievement.
State Superintendent of Schools Tony Evers announced last Friday that he nominated Washington Elementary and seven other schools in the state for the Blue Ribbon Award, an initiative by the U.S. Department of Education.
Superintendent Mark Elworthy addressed the nomination in his report to the school board on Jan. 23.
“This is based on achievement, which is fantastic,” Elworthy said.
Washington Elementary Principal Tom Grosinske said he and staff members at the school are proud and humbled to be nominated for the award.
“This validates the incredible work our school staff has been doing for our students. We have known all along we have amazing families, a world-class staff, and a very supportive school district,” Grosinske said in a press release. “This nomination is evidence of the positive and student-centered culture that is Washington Elementary School.”
Schools nominated to the program must complete the Blue Ribbon Schools application and undergo a rigorous national review process. Awards, presented to “Exemplary High Performing” and “Exemplary Achievement Gap Closing” schools, are typically announced in early September.
To be considered for the program, schools must be among the top schools in the state for overall achievement on statewide assessments or closing achievement gaps between student groups.
“The Blue Ribbon Schools Program recognizes the hard work of students, educators, families, and communities in striving for solid student academic achievement,” Evers said. “Our public school nominees provide a safe and supportive learning environment where young people can build a foundation for future academic and life success. I wish our nominees well in the next phase of the Blue Ribbon Schools process.”
The Blue Ribbon Schools Program has recognized more than 8,500 of America’s schools since it began in 1982.
