Hamilton Elementary named National Blue Ribbon School

TROY — The U.S. Department of Education announced 356 National Blue Ribbon Schools in the U.S., including Hamilton Elementary School in the Troy School District.

“We are grateful for this distinguished recognition of the entire Hamilton community,” Assistant Superintendent Kris Griffor said in an email. “Specifically, we appreciate the leadership of principal, Dr. David Recker, and his work to carry-out the vision of the district with staff, families, and students throughout the school.”

It is one of the U.S. Department of Education’s longest-running recognition programs, beginning in 1982, and it aims to recognize outstanding public and non-public elementary, middle and high schools based on their overall high academic achievement or success in closing the achievement gap among diverse student groups, according to the National Blue Ribbon Schools’ website.

The department recognizes schools based on student performance data, including assessment results, student subgroup performances and graduation rates. Schools are recognized in both or either of two performance categories.

Exemplary High-Performing Schools are among the top performers in their state as measured by state assessments or nationally normed tests. Exemplary Achievement Gap Closing Schools excel in narrowing achievement gaps between different student groups and the overall student body, according to the program.

Each nominated school submits an application detailing its school culture, programs, assessments, instructional practices, professional development, leadership, family and community involvement.  

Up to 420 schools may be nominated each year. The department invites nominations for the National Blue Ribbon Schools award from the top education officials in the country.

Some important traits that can be found in National Blue Ribbon Schools include leadership that encourages upholding high standards and instructional excellence through effective teaching skills and strong professional development with staff members. Collaboration among families, communities, and educators is very important to their success.

“The National Blue Ribbon Schools Award is a testament to the exceptional achievements of students and educators at each of these schools,” U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona said in a press release. “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.” 

Hamilton Elementary School is one of 12 Michigan schools that were named National Blue Ribbon Schools.

“Hamilton has dedicated teachers, supportive families, and curious students,” Recker said in an email. “Together, we work daily to help our kids become the best versions of themselves.”

The district celebrated Hamilton Elementary School’s achievement in a youtube video on their channel.

Other Michigan schools named as National Blue Ribbon Schools include:

• Chandler Woods Charter Academy in Belmont.

• Hill Elementary School in the Davison Community Schools in Davison.

• Dearborn STEM Middle School in the Dearborn City School District in Dearborn Heights.

• Pembroke Academy in Detroit.

• Rosy Mound Elementary School in the Grand Haven Area Public Schools.

• Hughes Elementary School in the Marshall Public Schools.

• Moraine Elementary School in the Northville Public Schools.

• Pellston Elementary School in the Pellston Public Schools.

• Meadow Ridge Elementary School in the Rockford Public Schools.

• Handley Elementary School in the Saginaw Public School District.

• Lake Hills Elementary School in the Grand Haven Area Public Schools in Spring Lake.

For more information, visit nationalblueribbonschools.ed.gov.