For the first time since 2009, a local public school has earned National Blue Ribbon honors from the U.S. Department of Education, recognizing exemplary academic performance or progress in mathematics and English language arts.

Cullman’s East Elementary School is among only five schools in Alabama to be designated as a National Blue Ribbon School for 2024, each nominated by the state superintendent of education to receive the annual recognition. In 2009, West Elementary — also a part of the Cullman City Schools system — was the last local school to be recognized with the award.

In all, the National Blue Ribbon School award is offered to only 356 schools each year out of more than 100,000 nationwide, including 1,380 schools in Alabama. In a statement, EES principal Melanie Harris said she’s proud of the effort that students and educators put forth to earn the honor.

“I would like to credit our teachers for being intentional in utilizing every moment during the school day to move students toward proficiency; our additional support staff for making our school culture, climate, and building a safe place to work and learn; and our families and other stakeholders for contributing to the learning process and always being willing to meet any need that may arise,” said Harris.

EES celebrated the prestigious federal education recognition on Friday with a pep rally for faculty and students at the school gym. Later this fall, school representatives will join colleagues from prestigious schools across America in Washington, D.C. for a November presentation administered by U.S. Secretary of Education Dr. Miguel Cardona.

“The National Blue Ribbon Schools Award is a testament to the exceptional achievements of students and educators at each of these schools,”