tennessee nominates 2008 blue ribbon schools

Nashville, TN – Education Commissioner Lana Seivers has nominated six Tennessee schools for the national Blue Ribbon Schools award which recognizes schools either for making dramatic gains or leading their state in student academic achievement. The U.S. Department of Education will invite these schools to apply and ultimately determine which schools are selected for the honor.

Tennessee’s 2008 Blue Ribbon School nominees are:
1. John P. Freeman Optional School, Memphis City
2. Mountain City Elementary School, Johnson County
3. Northwest Elementary School, Fayette County
4. Walnut Grove Elementary, Hardin County
5. Lawrenceburg Public Elementary School, Lawrence County
6. Greeneville High School, Greeneville City

“It is a pleasure to spotlight Tennessee schools for the good work they do. Meeting the criteria for Blue Ribbon status is a tremendous achievement of which the faculty and students should be proud,” Education Commissioner Lana Seivers said. “I encourage the communities served by these schools to recognize their accomplishment. On behalf of Governor Bredesen and the state of Tennessee, I express sincere gratitude and congratulations.”

Schools may be nominated in three categories: schools in the top 10 percent of the state serving at least 40 percent disadvantaged students; schools with at least 40 percent disadvantaged students that have improve student achievement to high levels; or schools in the top 10 percent of the state with fewer than 40 percent disadvantaged students.

The eligibility criteria for the award is posted on the U.S. Department of Education Web site at www.ed.gov/programs/nclbbrs/applicant.html.