NEW: 5 Alabama schools earn 2023 National Blue Ribbon honor

School is back in session, and the U.S. Department of Education is recognizing those that are setting an example for the whole nation with the 2023 National Blue Ribbon Schools. Read on to learn which five schools in Alabama made the list!

The five 2023 National Blue Ribbon schools in Alabama

Out of the 353 awarded schools, 5 of them were in Alabama. Two are located in North Alabama and three in central Alabama.

• Cordova Elementary School
• Creek View Elementary School
• Jefferson County International Baccalaureate School
• Mt. Carmel Elementary School
• Skyline High School

Why is a National Blue Ribbon School special?

The National Blue Ribbon School designation is the only award given by the U.S. Department of Education. Since its creation in 1983, over 9,000 schools across the country have earned the prestigious designation. 

“National Blue Ribbon School leaders articulate a vision of excellence and hold everyone to high standards. They demonstrate effective and innovative teaching and learning, and the schools value and support teachers and staff through meaningful professional learning. Data from many sources are used to drive instruction and every student strives for success. Families, communities, and educators work together toward common goals.

National Blue Ribbon Schools serve as models of effective and innovative school practices for state and district educators and other schools throughout the nation. A National Blue Ribbon School flag gracing a school’s entryway or on a flagpole is a widely recognized symbol of exemplary teaching and learning.”

U.S. Department of Education

Here are some fast facts about this year’s cohort.

• 353 schools were awarded in 48 states.
• 313 of award winners were public schools.
• 74% of public schools awarded were elementary schools.
• Click here to see the national fact sheet.

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