Connecticut, October 10, 2025
News Summary
Four Connecticut schools have been honored with Blue Ribbon designations for their outstanding achievements in student learning. This recognition comes despite the discontinuation of the federal Blue Ribbon program. The selected schools include House of Arts, Letters, and Science Academy, Gildersleeve School, Green Acres Elementary, and Weston Intermediate School. This honor reflects Connecticut’s commitment to celebrating educational excellence and the ongoing efforts of educators to improve student outcomes.
Connecticut Schools Achieve Blue Ribbon Designations Despite Federal Program’s End
Connecticut has honored four schools with Blue Ribbon designations this week, recognizing their exceptional achievements in student learning, despite the federal program being discontinued by the Trump administration in August 2023. The distinctions are awarded for either Exemplary High-Performing or Exemplary Achievement Gap Closing schools, with three of the recognized schools receiving accolades in both categories.
Designated Schools
The four Connecticut schools that received the prestigious designation are:
- House of Arts, Letters, and Science (HALS) Academy in New Britain
- Gildersleeve School in Portland
- Green Acres Elementary School in North Haven
- Weston Intermediate School in Weston
State Recognition
Connecticut’s recognition of these schools reflects the state’s commitment to celebrating educational success. The state Board of Education Vice Chair expressed pride in the achievements of these schools, highlighting their dedication to improving student outcomes.
Governor Ned Lamont previously announced in September that Connecticut would honor the schools selected by the federal Department of Education before the program’s conclusion, showcasing the ongoing commitment to educational excellence in the state.
Assessment and Evaluation
The schools received nominations based on data from Connecticut’s advanced accountability system, which evaluates student success through a variety of measures rather than relying solely on test scores. This holistic approach assesses multiple aspects of educational performance, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation.
Importance of Celebrating Excellence
The state’s Lieutenant Governor emphasized the need to celebrate public education achievements, especially in light of the federal program’s termination. The recognition serves as a testament to the dedication of educators and the impact of supportive programs in enhancing educational outcomes.
One notable example is Gildersleeve School, which benefited from the School Improvement Grant. This funding facilitated additional staffing and resources, significantly improving educational outcomes.
Additional Recognitions
U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona will also visit Israel Putnam Elementary School in Meriden, which received recognition in the category of Exemplary Achievement Gap Closing Schools. Cardona, a Meriden native with a background in Connecticut’s education system, emphasizes the importance of acknowledging schools that work to close achievement gaps.
Conclusion
The Blue Ribbon designations highlight the exemplary efforts of these Connecticut schools in fostering an environment conducive to learning and achievement. The commitment to quality education continues to shine through, despite the challenges posed by the loss of federal support.
FAQ
What is the significance of the Blue Ribbon designation?
The Blue Ribbon designation honors schools for exceptional achievement in student learning, recognizing their commitment to high educational standards.
Which schools in Connecticut received the Blue Ribbon designation?
The four schools recognized are House of Arts, Letters, and Science Academy (HALS) in New Britain, Gildersleeve School in Portland, Green Acres Elementary School in North Haven, and Weston Intermediate School in Weston.
How are schools nominated for the Blue Ribbon designation?
Schools are nominated based on data from Connecticut’s next-generation accountability system, which evaluates more than just test scores to assess student success.
Key Features Summary
| School Name | Location | Category | Notable Aspects |
|---|---|---|---|
| House of Arts, Letters, and Science Academy | New Britain | Exemplary High-Performing | Recognized for significant student learning achievements. |
| Gildersleeve School | Portland | Exemplary Achievement Gap Closing | Benefited from the School Improvement Grant. |
| Green Acres Elementary School | North Haven | Exemplary Achievement Gap Closing | Achieved recognition for closing achievement gaps. |
| Weston Intermediate School | Weston | Exemplary High-Performing | Recognized for high academic performance standards. |
| Israel Putnam Elementary School | Meriden | Exemplary Achievement Gap Closing | Will be celebrated by U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona. |
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Additional Resources
- CT News Junkie
- Wikipedia: Blue Ribbon Schools Program
- CT Insider
- Google Search: Blue Ribbon Schools Connecticut
- WFSB
- Google Scholar: Connecticut education awards
- Fox 61
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Education
- CT Post
- Google News: Connecticut schools recognition
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