OAK RIDGE, Tenn. — School spirit is not lacking at Glenwood Elementary School in Oak Ridge and spirits are high after it received a National Blue Ribbon award. It's a program by the United States Department of Education honoring schools that perform highly and work to close achievement gaps.
"We are so excited and proud to be a National Blue Ribbon school and super proud of our students, our staff and our families. It's really a community award", said Dr. Ginny Bowles, the school's principal.
It was the second time since 2012 the school has won the award. It's also the second consecutive year that an Oak Ridge school has earned the honor. There are two different categories that the award can be given based on.
It can be given to schools that close achievement gaps, and to schools that attain high achievements. This year, Glenwood Elementary School earned recognition for its high achievements.
Bowles said the school strives to prioritize its students' education.
"When students come to Glenwood, we really focus on meeting the individual needs of each child," she said.
The school plans to celebrate the achievement by organizing an event for staff. Bowles also said the award will lift the spirits of students and staff.
"We'll have a really exciting time with the whole family, doing a carnival atmosphere here and then we'll have a celebration just with our staff to congratulate them," she said.
The award may bring excitement for what's to come, but it wont change the hard work and effort the staff puts in for their students every day.
"I think we're gonna keep business going as it is, while also innovating and continuing to try to get better at getting better. But, the majority of our work is gonna stay consistent with what we've been doing, as it works," said Bowles.