Colonial Elementary School wins National Blue Ribbon School Award

Colonial Elementary School in Blue Ridge is a national award winner. This week of Oct. 1, the school became a National Blue Ribbon School. The school is over 79 years old and was at one time a high school as well as an elementary school. Located on Webster Rd. the school represents the innovation exhibited in the Botetourt County Public School Division.

Colonial is the largest elementary school in Botetourt County with over 400 students. Its students, parents and staff work hard daily during the school year to achieve success.

The National Blue Ribbon Schools Program has been recognizing great American schools since 1982.  According to the US Dept of Education, “The National Blue Ribbon Schools Program recognizes public and private elementary, middle, and high schools based on their overall academic excellence or their progress in closing achievement gaps among student subgroups. Every year the U. S. Department of Education seeks out and celebrates great American schools, schools demonstrating that all students can achieve to high levels. More than 8,500 schools across the country have been presented with this coveted award.”

“The National Blue Ribbon School award affirms the hard work of students, educators, families, and communities in creating safe and welcoming schools where students master challenging content. The National Blue Ribbon School flag gracing an entry or flying overhead is a widely recognized symbol of exemplary teaching and learning.”

Principal Tammy Riggs said, “We are thrilled to receive this recognition.  This is the result of a great deal of grit and determination on behalf of our staff and students along with the outstanding support of our Colonial community.  We will work hard to maintain this level of achievement for all of our students now and in the future.”

A new Colonial Elementary School is on tap to be built in the next few years. Until then, success continues at this worthy school.

–by Cathy Benson.  Photo Colonial Elementary Facebook