U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona today recognized 356 schools as the 2024 cohort of National Blue Ribbon Schools. Tyler ISD’s Caldwell Arts Academy was among those schools selected. This prestigious recognition highlights schools that excel in academic performance or make significant strides in closing achievement gaps among different student groups.
“If schools had a Super Bowl or World Series Championship, the National Blue Ribbon Schools award would be that championship,” Caldwell Arts Academy Principal Dr. Bobby Markle said. “At Caldwell, we have been recognized for our work in the arts and academics with various achievements, including Leader in Me Lighthouse School Designation, Arts School Network Outstanding Arts School Award, and Texas Education Theatre Association Award of Distinction.”
Caldwell Arts Academy is one of 31 schools in the state of Texas to receive this prestigious national award.
“The National Blue Ribbon Schools is the biggest honor for our students, staff, and families,” Markle continued. “It shows that our schools work to achieve excellence in education, which is outstanding! We are so thankful for the support of Tyler ISD, our community, and most importantly, our staff and students who commit to our program’s success every day! Way to go, Caldwell!”
“What an incredible honor for the students, parents, faculty, and staff at Caldwell Arts Academy,” Tyler ISD Superintendent Dr. Marty Crawford said. “A Blue Ribbon recognition proves their mission blending outcomes and campus culture works. It could not happen to a more incredible campus here in the heart of East Texas, a gem of a school that you’d more than likely find in the more contemporary cities of our state, proving student and parent choice already exists and that our hometown school district’s tag line of that small town feel with big city opportunities lives daily in the Rose Capital. Congratulations to current and past Caldwell students and their parents, faculty, staff, and Dr. Markle on this well-deserved designation.“
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.
“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 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 culture, programs, assessments, instructional practices, professional development, leadership, family, and community involvement.
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.
For more information, contact Jennifer Hines at Jennifer.Hines@TylerISD.org.