U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona today designated Chagrin Falls Middle School as one of the 356 schools in the nation to be named a 2024 National Blue Ribbon School. This prestigious recognition highlights schools that excel in academic performance or make significant strides in closing achievement gaps among different student groups.
The school shared this exciting announcement with teachers, staff members and students on the afternoon of Monday, September 23. The staff enjoyed a celebratory lunch and everyone received blue ribbon cupcakes. The middle school entrance has been decorated with blue lights, bows and pinwheels. A banner was hung while a blue confetti cannon burst and the alumni bell rang.
“This is an incredible honor for Chagrin Falls Middle School,” said Superintendent Dr. Jennifer Penczarski, Chagrin Falls Schools. “This recognition is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our teachers, staff, administrators, students, and families. It reflects our commitment to the goals outlined in our Strategic Plan: promoting high-quality learning experiences and inspiring all to grow and thrive.”
“The National Blue Ribbon 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 reflects the full diversity of American education and serves 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.
“Chagrin Falls Middle School is such a special place where we strive to build instructional connections, systems and meaningful, positive relationships,” said Principal Laila Discenza, Chagrin Middle School. “Our high achievement roots in the foundation of belonging, value and collaboration in order for students to be most likely to succeed. I am beyond proud and excited that we have been recognized as a National Blue Ribbon School as this prestigious honor reflects the hard work, dedication, and excellence that define us.”
On September 23, the school entrance was decorated in blue for the announcement and all students and staff celebrated with blue cookies. On Friday, September 27, the 7th and 8th graders, along with the current 9th and 10th graders, plan to wear blue and capture this momentous occasion with a picture at Harris Stadium, in addition to ringing the victory bell.
Chagrin Falls Middle School also was honored with this recognition in 2010. This year, of the 353 schools recognized nationally, 14 were from Ohio. Just as impressive, only 43 middle schools across the nation earned the distinction this year.
All 2024 National Blue Ribbon Schools will be honored at a national awards ceremony in Washington, D.C. November 7-8. The school looks forward to raising the Blue Ribbon flag they will receive at the ceremony when they return and plan to incorporate a week of activities chosen by students, concluding with a school dance. “We are also collaborating with the Chagrin Falls Popcorn Shop to make a blue popcorn named CFMS National Blue Ribbon for the community to share in this achievement,” said Discenza.
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, curriculum, assessments, instructional practices, professional development, leadership, family, and community involvement.
“The National Blue Ribbon Award is a testament to the innovative teaching methods and dedication to student growth that Chagrin Falls Middle School teachers, staff, students, and families embrace,” said President Lori Bendall, Chagrin Falls Board of Education. “This recognition is well-deserved and a moment for our entire Chagrin Falls community to celebrate.”
Watch the CFMS celebration video here.
