Maryville Elementary Named 2024 National Blue Ribbon School

Collinsville, Illinois – September 23, 2024 – Maryville Elementary School (Maryville, IL) has
been named a 2024 National Blue Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education. The
announcement was made by the U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona.

Maryville Elementary is one of 18 schools in the State of Illinois, and only 356 schools
nationwide, chosen for this prestigious honor. The National Blue Ribbon Schools designation
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.”

“I’m very happy for all of our students, families and staff. They are always willing to play an
active role in supporting our school,” said Maryville Principal Doug Kirk “Our strong PTA and
community stakeholders have helped create a cohesive learning community in Maryville.”

The Department recognizes all schools based on student performance data including
assessment results, student subgroup performance and graduation rates. Maryville is
recognized as an Exemplary High Performing School. These schools are among the top
performers in their state as measured by state assessments or nationally normed tests.

The Department of Education 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.

Each nominated school submits a comprehensive application detailing its school culture,
programs, assessments, instructional practices, professional development, leadership, family
and community involvement.

In the announcement of this year’s honorees, the Department of Education said, “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.”

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.

"I want to recognize the hard work and dedication of our incredible staff, students and families at
Maryville Elementary. Their commitment to high achievement and fostering social and emotional
growth in students is truly commendable,” said Collinsville Community Unit School District #10
Superintendent Dr. Mark B. Skertich, “Being named a 2024 National Blue Ribbon School is a
testament to their collective efforts, and we are thrilled to see them receive this well-deserved
recognition,”

Maryville Elementary School is a PreK to 4th Grade school in Collinsville Community Unit
School District #10. Collinsville CUSD10 comprises 12 schools, serving 6,100+ students
PreK-12 in Madison & St. Clair Counties in southwestern Illinois.
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Additional Resources:
National Blue Ribbon Schools/Maryville Elementary School Profile
Illinois State Board of Education Press Release: Eighteen Illinois Schools Receive Prestigious
Recognition as National Blue Ribbon Schools