Grapevine-Colleyville ISD Collegiate Academy at Tarrant County College Northeast was one of 356 schools recognized by U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona today as the 2024 cohort of National Blue Ribbon Schools. This prestigious recognition highlights schools that excel in academic performance or make significant strides in closing achievement gaps among different student groups.
“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.”
The 2024 National Blue Ribbon Schools reflect the full diversity of American education and serve students from all backgrounds. While awardees represent a wide array of schools, they share common traits. National Blue Ribbon Schools are led by leaders who articulate a clear vision of instructional excellence and uphold high standards. They showcase effective teaching methods and offer robust professional development for their staff. Data-driven instruction is a hallmark, and there is a concerted effort to ensure every student succeeds. Collaboration among families, communities, and educators is a key component of their success.
“We are incredibly proud of Collegiate Academy's academic achievements, but even more so of the remarkable students we are sending out into the world,” GCISD Superintendent Dr. Brad Schnautz remarked. “These students are not just scholars – they are difference makers. The impact of this partnership has propelled them into the next chapter of their lives, equipping them to thrive in a competitive, ever-evolving world, thanks to the invaluable learning experiences they've gained.”
A National Blue Ribbon School award flag displayed in a school’s entryway or on a flagpole is a widely recognized emblem of exceptional teaching and learning. These schools serve as models of effective and innovative practices for educators across the nation.
The Department recognizes all schools based on student performance data including assessment results, student subgroup performance and graduation rates. Schools are recognized in both or either of two performance categories:
Exemplary High Performing Schools: These schools are among the top performers in their state as measured by state assessments or nationally normed tests.
Exemplary Achievement Gap Closing Schools: These schools excel in narrowing achievement gaps between different student groups and the overall student body.
Each nominated school submits a comprehensive application detailing its school culture, programs, assessments, instructional practices, professional development, leadership, family, and community involvement.
“This prestigious distinction is a remarkable achievement for our school community,” said Collegiate Academy Principal Lauren Jackson. “As Collegiate Academy just began its 11th year in August, with only seven graduating classes, we are still a relatively new school, and this honor represents a significant milestone in our journey.
“The recognition from the U.S. Department of Education is based on data from the past three years, underscoring GCISD Collegiate Academy’s commitment to consistent, high quality education,” she continued. “This achievement is a testament to the strong partnership between Grapevine-Colleyville ISD and TCC Northeast and the collective efforts and perseverance of our founding and current teachers, administrations, and staff, who have continuously sought innovative approaches to support students with this unique opportunity of earning an associate degree while still in high school.”
Up to 420 schools may be nominated each year. The Department invites nominations for the National Blue Ribbon Schools 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.