The Indiana Department of Education announced 11 public and private schools as the first recipients of the Indiana Blue Ribbon Schools designation, recognizing campuses for exceptional academic achievement and student success.
New Palestine's Brandywine Elementary is among the recipients.
Modeled after the National Blue Ribbon Schools program established in 1982, the new state-level honor celebrates schools that demonstrate excellence through strong student performance and collaborative school communities. The U.S. Department of Education has encouraged states to develop their own recognition programs to highlight local accomplishments.
Gov. Mike Braun said the award reflects the dedication of teachers, administrators, parents and communities working together to prioritize students and improve outcomes across Indiana.
Honorees will be formally recognized at the Educational Excellence Awards gala in Indianapolis on Friday, Nov. 21.
The Indiana Department of Education said the new initiative will continue annually, spotlighting schools that exemplify academic excellence and innovative approaches to supporting student learning.
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