Glenwood Elementary Named National Blue Ribbon School by U.S. DOE

OAK RIDGE, Tenn. – Glenwood Elementary is one of 356 schools across the nation, and one of six in Tennessee, to be named a National Blue Ribbon School for 2024, the U.S. Department of Education (DOE) announced today. The recognition identifies Glenwood as an Exemplary High Performing School for being among Tennessee’s highest performing schools as measured by state assessments or nationally normed tests. Since 2017, Glenwood’s state ELA and Math Success Rate has increased year-over-year, nearly doubling over the seven-year span. The school was named a Reward School for the last two years by the Tennessee Department of Education and was given an “A” rating in the state’s first year of the letter grade system. This is the second-consecutive year that an Oak Ridge School was recognized by the prestigious national honor, with Linden Elementary earning the recognition in 2023.

“I am so fortunate to lead a school of inspiring educators and students who show up every day with a dedication to raise the bar on achievement,” said Dr. Ginny Boles, Glenwood Elementary Principal. “Our staff and their commitment to finding innovative, data-driven strategies to help students reach their full potential has allowed us to exceed our goals, year after year.”

According to the Department of Education, National Blue Ribbon School leaders “articulate a vision of excellence and hold everyone to high standards,” and also “demonstrate effective and innovative teaching and learning.” Boles joined Glenwood in 201, and in spite of the challenges that the COVID pandemic presented in her first year, has seen annual growth in achievement from her students.

“Dr. Boles has been an invaluable asset and leader at Glenwood Elementary,” said Dr. Bruce Borchers, Superintendent of Oak Ridge Schools. “She has built a culture at Glenwood where staff are committed to making student-centered decisions, prioritizing what is best for students above all else. They use their student data to drive their instruction, and their success speaks for itself. As a district, having two schools recognized in consecutive years speaks to the level of excellence that has become the expectation in Oak Ridge Schools, and I could not be more proud of the success of our talented leaders and staff.”

National Blue Ribbon Schools serve as models of effective and innovative school practices for state and district educators, the designation is a widely recognized symbol of exemplary teaching and learning. Up to 420 schools may be nominated each year. The Department invites nominations for the award from the top education official in all states, the District of Columbia, U.S. territories, the Department of Defense Education Activity, and the Bureau of Indian Education. Private schools are nominated by the Council for American Private Education.

“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. 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.”

Representatives from this year’s National Blue Ribbon Schools will be recognized at a special two-day National Award Ceremony in Washington, D.C., November 7 - 8, 2024.