Four Mississippi schools were announced this week as National Blue Ribbon Schools, meaning they’re the best of the best in the U.S.
The Department of Education named Mannsdale Upper Elementary School in Madison and Magnolia Park Elementary School in Ocean Springs Exemplary High Performing Schools, meaning they are among the top performers in the state as measured by local assessments or nationally normed tests.
Ripley High School and Stone Elementary School were recognized as Exemplary Achievement Gap Closing Schools due to their success in narrowing achievement gaps between different student groups and the overall student body.
“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 during the announcement ceremony.
“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,” Cardona continued. “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.”
Mannsdale Upper Elementary, Magnolia Park Elementary, Ripley High School, and Stone Elementary will now receive a National Blue Ribbon School award flag to display in the schools’ entryways. In total, 356 schools across the nation were recognized in 2024.
