Eight Huntsville City Schools will be recognized as Blue Ribbon Lighthouse Schools by the Blue Ribbon Schools of Excellence Program during its annual conference in December. The recognition highlights the district's continued commitment to academic excellence and continuous improvement.
Six schools have earned the prestigious designation for a second time:
Blossomwood Elementary School
Goldsmith-Schiffman Elementary School
Hampton Cove Elementary School
Jones Valley Elementary School
Mountain Gap Elementary School
Mountain Gap Middle School
Two schools will receive the recognition for the first time:
Chaffee Elementary School
Farley Elementary School
In addition, Lee High School is scheduled to begin the National Blue Ribbon Lighthouse Schools evaluation process this fall in pursuit of its first Lighthouse School designation.
To earn the National Blue Ribbon Lighthouse School designation, schools must complete a comprehensive evaluation and meet rigorous standards across nine performance areas: Student Focus and Support; School Organization and Culture; Challenging Standards and Curriculum; Active Teaching and Learning; Technology Integration; Professional Community; Leadership and Educational Vitality; School, Family, and Community Partnerships; and Indicators of Success.
"This recognition is a testament to the dedication of our students, teachers, administrators, support staff, and families," said Dr. Clarence Sutton, HCS Superintendent. "These achievements reflect the culture of excellence that exists throughout HCS. We are incredibly proud of these school communities and their commitment to helping every child succeed."
HCS has built a strong tradition of success in the Blue Ribbon Lighthouse Schools program. Last year, the Academy for Academics and Arts (AAA) Elementary, the Academy for Academics and Arts (AAA) Middle, Challenger Elementary School, Challenger Middle School, Grissom High School, and Huntsville High School were each recognized as two-time Blue Ribbon Lighthouse Schools.
The Blue Ribbon annual conference brings together educators to celebrate outstanding schools and share best practices that support student achievement and school improvement.