One of 325 schools recognized nationwide and only Washington school awarded

Redmond, Wash. – Rosa Parks Elementary School has been named a 2021 National Blue Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education. The recognition is based on a school’s overall academic performance. 

"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."

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. 

"Rosa Parks Elementary School is a truly special school community for students, families and staff,” said Melissa Doering, Principal. “I am so thankful to lead this unique and diverse community of learners for a fourth year, and I believe this award recognizes the ongoing dedication of our world-class teaching staff and our supportive community to the success of our students. We are so proud of this accomplishment, and we will continue to learn, monitor and adjust to meet our children’s needs."

"We are very proud of the Rosa Parks Elementary School community for achieving a National Blue Ribbon award,” said Dr. Jon Holmen, Lake Washington School District Superintendent. “This award is indicative of the work being done in our schools to provide excellent learning opportunities for students while also supporting their social-emotional health."

Up to 420 schools may be nominated each year. The Department invites National Blue Ribbon Schools nominations from the top education official in all states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, the Department of Defense Education Activity, and the Bureau of Indian Education. Private schools are nominated by the Council for American Private Education.

###

About Lake Washington: Lake Washington School District is a high-performing public school district serving Kirkland, Redmond, and Sammamish, Washington. It is the second largest district in the state of Washington, with over 31,000 students in 57 schools.