Representatives from East Elementary School in Cullman made the trip last week to Washington, D.C., as part of a prestigious honor from the U.S. Department of Education.

Earlier this year, East Elementary was selected as one of five schools out of more than 1,380 schools in Alabama to be named a National Blue Ribbon School for 2024. The last time such an honor was received in the Cullman City Schools system was 15 years ago in 2009, when West Elementary was named a National Blue Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education.
In order to receive this honor, schools must be nominated by the state superintendent of education. The award is given to 356 schools out of more than 100,000 nationwide each year. National Blue Ribbon Schools must be either an exemplary high-performing school in math and ELA or must be an exemplary achievement gap closing school in math and ELA.

“I am honored to be the lead learner of a school full of educators who exhibit excellence everyday in every way,” East Elementary School Principal Melanie Harris said. “I am thankful to lead with teachers and staff to reach their individual potential as we continue to strive for excellence in the world of education. I also recognize that these achievements are made possible by the continued support of our community.”

East Elementary’s AMSTI Building Based Math Coach Courtney Speciale said the honor is a reflection of the hard work educators at the school have been doing in recent years to make sure all students are reaching their potential.

“One of the greatest ways we can care for students is to raise the bar,” Speciale said. “I learned that if there is a gap in expectations, then there will be a disconnect and achievement will be limited. It is important that we believe that every child is capable of meeting their own personal goals one step at a time.”

In addition to being recognized by the federal department of education, educators from Cullman had the opportunity to connect with some of the top education leaders from across the nation, sharing best practices and showcasing what has worked here in Alabama.

“Schools are buildings where dignity is manufactured. We boast a league of teachers who light the way to excellence by making the path clear for all learners by building relationships, setting high expectations, and operating with the ability to adjust to the needs of students within our community,” Harris said. “We close gaps, address deficits, and equip students with skills they need to be successful, productive citizens while they are under our care and supervision.”