Two Brooklyn schools, A. Fantis School of Saints Constantine & Helen Cathedral and Brooklyn School of Inquiry, on Monday were named as part of the 2024 National Blue Ribbon Schools cohort by the U.S. Department of Education.
The schools, located in Downtown Brooklyn and Bensonhurst, respectively, can now display the National Blue Ribbon School flag in their entryways, symbolizing their status among the top 356 schools in the nation recognized for excellence in education, according to a press release.
The DOE stated that schools are nominated based on student performance data, which includes assessment results, subgroup performance, and graduation rates. These metrics determine nominations in two categories: Exemplary High Performing Schools, which recognizes schools that are among the highest performers in their state based on standardized assessments, and Exemplary Achievement Gap Closing Schools, which honors institutions that have made significant strides in closing the achievement gap between student subgroups.
“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.”
The selection process for the award is rigorous, involving a comprehensive application that outlines a school's culture, academic programs, instructional practices, professional development, leadership, and community involvement.
National Blue Ribbon Schools are recognized for their dedication to instructional excellence and student success. The schools emphasize data-driven instruction, high standards, and collaboration among families, communities and educators.
