The U.S. Department of Education recognized 356 schools as the 2024 cohort of the National Blue Ribbon Schools, including four schools in South Dakota on Monday, Sept. 23. This prestigious recognition highlights schools that excel in academic performance or make significant strides in closing achievement gaps among different student groups.
Among the schools receiving this honor was Lennox Elementary School, Lennox School District 41-4. The school will be recognized at the Teacher of the Year Banquet in Pierre on Sept. 26, and an awards ceremony will be held in Washington D.C. in early November.
“We are thrilled and honored to be receiving this award, and I’m excited to celebrate this incredible achievement with our staff and community throughout the year. Our team is dedicated to providing the best education for our students, and we are fortunate to have such amazing students and families. This accomplishment wouldn’t have been possible without the hard work of our students, and I am incredibly proud of each one of them,” said Cody Lutes, Lennox Elementary Principal.
Lennox Elementary serves about 350 students from pre-kindergarten through fourth grade, including those from local farms and country homes. This unique setting reflects their commitment to community and collaboration, creating a supportive environment where students, families, and staff work together to nurture young minds.
Lennox Elementary is being recognized for its strong commitment to fostering student growth both academically and as responsible citizens. The school prioritizes differentiated instruction to meet the unique needs of each student, ensuring they reach their full potential. Alongside academics, character education and the development of essential life skills—such as empathy, respect, and responsibility—are integrated into daily activities to help students build a well-rounded foundation.
A focus on data-driven instruction has played a significant role in the school’s success, said Lutes. By systematically analyzing student performance data, educators can identify strengths and areas for improvement, allowing for targeted instructional strategies and interventions. Regular reviews of this data contribute to a culture of continuous improvement, helping staff adapt their teaching practices to better meet student needs, resulting in enhanced achievement and engagement.
According to Lutes, the belief that all students can achieve at high levels is a core philosophy at Lennox Elementary.
Recognizing the individual potential and learning styles of every student, the school is dedicated to providing the necessary support and resources. High expectations are maintained, with student growth closely monitored and personalized instruction offered to ensure that each student has access to rigorous academic opportunities tailored to their needs.
In addition to Lennox Elementary, other South Dakota schools recognized as National Blue Ribbon Schools for 2024 include Lincoln Elementary School (Aberdeen School District 06-1), Christ The King School (Bishop O’Gorman Catholic Schools), and Warner High School (Warner School District 6-5).
“Blue Ribbon status is awarded to schools that demonstrate commitment to excellence for all students,” said South Dakota Secretary of Education Joe Graves. “The work that is being done at Lennox Elementary, Lincoln Elementary, Christ The King Elementary, and Warner High School is a testament to talented teachers and staff, students who work hard to achieve their potential, and dedicated leadership.”
U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona also praised the achievements of these schools, saying, “The National Blue Ribbon Schools Award is a testament to the exceptional achievements of students and educators at each of these schools. 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 National Blue Ribbon Schools program honors schools across the country that serve students from diverse backgrounds. While these schools differ in size and type, they share common characteristics: strong leadership, effective teaching, data-driven instruction, and a collaborative effort among families, communities, and educators. A National Blue Ribbon School flag displayed at a school’s entrance is a recognized symbol of exceptional teaching and learning, serving as a model for educators nationwide.
Schools are selected for recognition based on student performance data, including assessment results, student subgroup performance, and graduation rates. Schools are honored in two categories: Exemplary High Performing Schools, which are among the top performers in their state, and Exemplary Achievement Gap Closing Schools, which excel in narrowing achievement gaps among student groups. Each nominated school submits a comprehensive application outlining its school culture, instructional practices, leadership, and community involvement.
Up to 420 schools may be nominated for the award each year.
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