Criss Elementary named National Blue Ribbon School
PARKERSBURG - Criss Elementary School has been named a National Blue Ribbon School.
U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona Tuesday recognized 325 schools as National Blue Ribbon Schools for 2021. The recognition is based on a school’s overall academic performance or progress in closing achievement gaps among student subgroups.
Criss was named a National Blue Ribbon School in the category of Exemplary High-Performing School.
"We are thrilled to have the distinction of being selected as a 2021 National Blue Ribbon School,” said Criss Principal Heather Grant. “This could not have been achieved without the combined efforts of the entire staff, students, parents, and community members. We have worked extremely hard to move from ranking 220th academically in the state to the top 20 for the past four years.”
“We couldn’t be more proud of Criss Elementary School, the administration, the teachers, the staff, the students and the community,” said Wood County Schools Superintendent Will Hosaflook. "Everyone working together is what makes a school excellent, and Criss is a wonderful example of the kind of dedication and cooperation we see in Wood County Schools.”
Next week, Criss Elementary will hold a series of Spirit Week events in honor of the recognition.
“I highly commend the Criss Family for their unwavering dedication to provide our students with the best possible opportunities to succeed,” Grant said.
The coveted National Blue Ribbon Schools award affirms the hard work of educators, families and communities in creating safe and welcoming schools where students master challenging and engaging content. Now in its 39th year, the National Blue Ribbon Schools Program has bestowed approximately 10,000 awards to more than 9,000 schools.
“This year’s cohort of honorees demonstrates what is possible when committed educators and school leaders create vibrant, welcoming, and affirming school cultures where rich teaching and learning can flourish,” said Secretary Cardona. “I commend this school and all our Blue Ribbon honorees for working to keep students healthy and safe while meeting their academic, social, emotional, and mental health needs. In the face of unprecedented circumstances, you found creative ways to engage, care for, protect, and teach our children. Blue Ribbon Schools have so much to offer and can serve as a model for other schools and communities so that we can truly build back better.”