Chango Elementary is one of 297 schools nationwide in 2022 and the fourth school within Shenendehowa to earn this prestigious award
(CLIFTON PARK, NY) Chango Elementary School was named a 2022 National Blue Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education this morning.
The recognition is based on a school’s overall academic performance or progress in closing achievement gaps among student subgroups. U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona made the announcement during his Return to School Road Trip.
The coveted National Blue Ribbon Schools award serves as a model of effective school practices for state and district educators and other schools throughout the nation. A National Blue Ribbon School flag gracing a school’s entryway or on a flagpole is a widely recognized symbol of exemplary teaching and learning.
Chango Elementary is one of only 297 schools in the country, including 20 schools in New York to receive the 2022 National Blue Ribbon School award.
“I applaud all the honorees for the 2022 National Blue Ribbon Schools Award for creating vibrant, welcoming, and affirming school communities where students can learn, grow, reach their potential, and achieve their dreams,” said Secretary Cardona. “As our country continues to recover from the pandemic, we know that our future will only be as strong as the education we provide to all of our children. Blue Ribbon Schools have gone above and beyond to keep students healthy and safe while meeting their academic, social, emotional, and mental health needs. These schools show what is possible to make an enduring, positive difference in students’ lives.”
The Department recognizes all schools in one of two performance categories, based on all student scores, subgroup student scores and graduation rates:
- Exemplary High-Performing Schools are among their state’s highest performing schools as measured by state assessments or nationally normed tests.
- Exemplary Achievement Gap-Closing Schools are among their state’s highest performing schools in closing achievement gaps between a school’s student groups and all students.
Chango Elementary was selected as an Exemplary High Performing School.
“We are truly honored and excited to be recognized as a 2022 National Blue Ribbon School,” said Chango Principal Michelle Rawson. “I am so proud of our students, staff and the greater Chango community for earning this national award. This is a reflection of the true sense of family and teamwork that we have here at Chango and the education we provide to all students.”
This is the fourth school in the Shenendehowa Central School District to be named a National Blue Ribbon School (Tesago Elementary in 2013, Orenda Elementary in 1990 and Gowana Junior High School in 1989)
“The district is extremely proud of Chango Elementary School,” said Superintendent Dr. L. Oliver Robinson. “Through the contributions of all teachers, staff, PTA, parents within the Chango family, and the leadership of former Principal Karin Skarka and current Principal Michelle Rawson, the school excels at offering a positive learning environment for all children to thrive and flourish.”
Congratulations to all Chango students, teachers, staff and families!
