10 Sep 2010
Dallas ISD schools are among 25 Texas schools receiving the recognition
DALLAS–The Dallas Independent School District's H.S. Thompson Learning Center and James B. Bonham Elementary School have been named 2010 Blue Ribbon Schools by the U.S. Department of Education.
The award honors schools that achieved academic excellence or made significant progress in closing the achievement gap. The Blue Ribbon program honors public and private elementary, middle, and high schools, based on one of two criteria: schools that dramatically improve student performance to high levels on the state tests; schools whose students achieve in the top 10 percent of their state on state tests.
"We are excited about this outstanding news and I would like to congratulate and thank the staff at both schools for their hard work and dedication," said Superintendent of Schools Michael Hinojosa. "These schools are two examples of the many excellent schools that we have in Dallas ISD. The criteria for receiving the Blue Ribbon Award is more rigorous than ever, so this is quite an accomplishment."
Both schools receiving this recognition are among the 66 best schools in the district, each rated Exemplary by the Texas Education Agency.
"We are honored and humbled by this recognition," said H.S. Thompson Learning Center Principal Kamalia Cotton. "Our students, faculty, and community continue to work tirelessly so that we not only focus on the academics, but the social and emotional well-being for all of the students that we serve. Every student that comes our way, comes not by chance but by providence. We know that the impact that we make on our students' lives will leave an indelible mark forever."
"The James B. Bonham Elementary School community wishes to express its pride in receiving the 2010 National Blue Ribbon Award," said Principal Sandra Fernandez. "This honor is a result of a unique collaboration between students, parents, staff and community members, with student success as the ultimate goal. At James B. Bonham, we believe... one team, one goal, no limits!"
The selected schools are among only 25 schools in Texas to be named Blue Ribbon Schools. These schools have demonstrated success in closing the achievement gap and each school has an economically disadvantaged population of 40 percent or greater. Schools that receive the award serve as models of best practices for schools across the state.
The 2010 Blue Ribbon Schools will be honored at the Blue Ribbon Schools conference in Washington D.C. on Nov. 15-16.
"Dallas ISD principals and their teachers are no longer focusing on teaching to the test but rather creating academically challenging assignments that will better prepare students for college and the world of work. Dallas ISD has become an exemplar for urban schools as an effort based district that focuses on high achievement for all students."