October 15, 2007
Monday

Richard Johnson Elementary School in Metlakatla and Delta Junction Elementary School have been named 2007 No Child Left Behind Blue Ribbon Schools by the U.S. Department of Education.

"I congratulate the students, the schools' staffs, and their communities for this well-deserved recognition," said Alaska Interim Education Commissioner Barbara Thompson. "They represent the many Alaska schools that strive to improve the academic achievement of all their students."

Richard Johnson Elementary, in the Annette Island School District, serves nearly 150 students in kindergarten through grade five in a predominantly Native community. Delta Junction Elementary, in the Delta-Greely School District, serves nearly 400 students in prekindergarten through grade five.

They are among 287 schools nationwide to win the award, which honors schools for helping students achieve at very high levels or for making progress in closing the achievement gap between disadvantaged students and other students.

"Disadvantaged" is defined as students who are from low-income families, or are limited English proficient, or are migrant students.

Both of Alaska's awarded schools are dramatically improved schools with at least 40 percent of their students from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Only 413 schools nationwide can be nominated by the states, apportioned by state student enrollments. Alaska was allowed three nominations. Nominated schools are then invited to submit an application if they want to be considered for the honor.

Representatives from the awarded schools will be honored at a ceremony in Washington, D.C., on November 12-13.

On the Web:

http://www.ed.gov/programs/nclbbrs/2007/index.html

Source of News:

Alaska Department of Education

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