Northern Cass and Two Other Schools Earn Blue Ribbon Honors

Three schools in North Dakota have received the prestigious designation of “Blue Ribbon Schools” for their outstanding academic achievements. This recognition includes Northern Cass Public School located in Hunter, northwest of Fargo, along with Schroeder Middle School in Grand Forks and Burlington-Des Lacs Elementary School, which is situated northwest of Minot. The announcement was made by State School Superintendent Kirsten Baesler.

The North Dakota Department of Public Instruction nominated these schools for the Blue Ribbon honors, which are typically awarded by the U.S. Department of Education. The Blue Ribbon program, in operation since 1982, has been a collaborative effort between the federal agency and state education departments. However, the U.S. Department of Education recently informed states that it would cease its involvement in the program, emphasizing that state administration would provide more flexibility in recognizing exceptional schools.

Recognition for Academic Excellence

All three schools have been acknowledged as “exemplary high-performing schools” in both reading and mathematics. This distinction highlights the dedication of their students, teachers, and administrators to achieving high academic standards.

Northern Cass Public School, which serves 724 students from Pre-K through 12th grade, has demonstrated significant educational success. Schroeder Middle School, catering to 570 students in grades six through eight, and Burlington-Des Lacs Elementary School, which has 415 students from Pre-K to grade 6, also exemplify academic excellence in their respective categories.

This recognition not only honors the individual schools but also reflects positively on the overall educational landscape in North Dakota. The commitment to maintaining high academic standards among these schools serves as an inspiring model for others aiming for similar achievements.

With their recent designation, these schools join a select group recognized for excellence, reaffirming the importance of quality education in fostering student success across the state.