Multiple districts — City High Middle School in Grand Rapids and Countryside Elementary School in Byron Center are among 16 Michigan schools recognized as Blue Ribbon Schools by the Michigan Department of Education.
The award celebrates schools that are among the top performers on state and national tests and assessments. The honor was previously issued nationally by the U.S. Department of Education, but when the federal program was cut in August, MDE stepped in to make sure this year’s nominees were still recognized.
City High was previously named a National Blue Ribbon School in 2019. Principal Charlotte Vandervliet said the school learned that it was primed to receive the award again, just days before the federal program was canceled. Then MDE reached out to let the school know of its plans to acknowledge the nominees.
She said it’s a “tremendous honor” to receive the designation.
“The hard work of our community and the support that we get from everyone is so important. To know that it was recognized, even by the state of Michigan, is so rewarding,” Vandervliet said. “And to know that we’re getting this award for the second time in six years is unbelievably exciting because that doesn’t happen often.”
Asked what made City stand out to the MDE, Vandervliet pointed to its International Baccalaureate program and its efforts to be more accessible without compromising academic standards.
“It’s the hard work and dedication of the scholars and the staff that shines through,” she said. “And our teachers work really hard to challenge our scholars and have them perform.”
Countryside has also earned the Blue Ribbon distinction before, in 2017.
In a press release, Byron Center Superintendent Kevin Macina praised the school’s commitment to its students.
“At Countryside Elementary, the entire staff works together to ensure every student has the best possible learning experience and receives the individualized support needed to succeed. The team is dedicated to fostering a culture of belonging where every child is challenged, supported and inspired to reach their full potential,” Macina stated.
He added that the achievement wouldn’t be possible without students, staff, parents and the Byron Center community.
“This recognition is both an honor and a reminder of our shared commitment to all BCPS students,” Macina said.
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