Hope Middle Recognized Nationally as a Blue Ribbon School

Hope Middle School was recognized by the U.S. Department of Education as one of 356 schools across the country - and just one of five in North Carolina - to be named as a National Blue Ribbon School in the 2024 cohort.

This prestigious recognition highlights schools that excel in academic performance or make significant strides in closing achievement gaps among different student groups.

The 2024 National Blue Ribbon Schools reflect the full diversity of American education and serve students from all backgrounds. While awardees represent a wide array of schools, they share common traits. National Blue Ribbon Schools are led by leaders who articulate a clear vision of instructional excellence and uphold high standards. They showcase effective teaching methods and offer robust professional development for their staff. Data-driven instruction is a hallmark, and there is a concerted effort to ensure every student succeeds. Collaboration among families, communities, and educators is a key component of their success.

"We are deeply honored and incredibly proud to have been nominated by the N.C. Department of Public Education to ultimately be named a National Blue Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education," Hope Middle School Principal Jennifer Johnson said. "This prestigious recognition is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and commitment of our entire school community - our students, teachers, staff and families - who have worked together to foster an environment of excellence, growth, and inclusion."

The Department recognizes all schools based on student performance data including assessment results, student subgroup performance and graduation rates.

Hope, the first such honoree in Pitt County Schools' history, was cited as an "Exemplary High Performing School" as a result of its rating among the top performers in North Carolina as measured by state assessments or nationally-normed tests. That specific designation was also saluted last May with Hope's selection as a Lighthouse School by the Blue Ribbon Schools of Excellence, a 501c3 non-profit organization.

A National Blue Ribbon School award flag, which is a widely recognized emblem of exceptional teaching and learning, will be displayed on the flagpole and at the school's entry way. It represents a model of effective and innovative practices for educators across the nation.

"This award celebrates not only academic achievement, but also our shared vision of empowering each student to reach their full potential," Johnson added. "It reflects the passion and innovation our educators bring to the classroom every day, the resilience and perseverance of our students, and the unwavering support of our families and broader school community."

Each nominated school submits a comprehensive application detailing its school culture, programs, assessments, instructional practices, professional development, leadership, family, and community involvement.

"The National Blue Ribbon Schools Award is a testament to the exceptional achievements of students and educators at each of these schools,” U.S. Department of Education Miguel Cardona said. "The 2024 National Blue Ribbon Schools are raising the bar for our nation’s students, serving as models for effective teaching and intentional collaboration in their schools and communities. As we celebrate their achievements, let us look to these schools for inspiration as we champion education as the foundation of a brighter future for every child."

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

"As we celebrate this milestone, we remain dedicated to continuing the pursuit of educational excellence," Johnson closed. "We will use this recognition as inspiration to keep pushing the boundaries of what’s possible for our students, ensuring they have the tools and opportunities to succeed, both inside and outside the classroom. It's certainly a GREAT day to be a Mustang!"

NOTE - for more information, please visit: https://nationalblueribbonschools.ed.gov/.