The U.S. Department of Education today recognized three Rhode Island schools as National Blue Ribbon Schools for 2018, based on their overall academic excellence or their progress in closing achievement gaps.

One of the three is Colt Andrews Elementary School in Bristol.

“The Blue Ribbon School Award is a tremendous honor, and earning this distinction requires hard work, talent, and vision from school leaders, teachers, and, of course, the students,” said Governor Gina M. Raimondo. “Congratulations to Rhode Island’s newest Blue Ribbon Schools, joining the ranks of some of the most engaging, innovative, dynamic schools in our state and across the country.”

The other two schools are East Greenwich High School in East Greenwich, and Jamestown School-Melrose in Jamestown.

“I want to offer my sincere thanks and congratulations to these three outstanding school communities,” said Ken Wagner, Commissioner of Elementary and Secondary Education. “A significant amount of work goes into becoming a Blue Ribbon School, and that work does not go unnoticed. These schools have a lot to be proud of, and we look to them as examples of some of the best practices that will move our entire system forward.”

"I am extremely proud of the Colt Andrews faculty, staff, administrators, community, and students for achieving this prestigious award,” said Dr. Mario Andrade, Superintendent of the Bristol Warren Regional School District. “This is a reflection of their dedication, collaboration, and growth mindset over a number of years as well as their commitment to provide high quality instruction coupled with high expectations to all students on a daily basis."