Congratulations Ridgecrest Elementary staff, students and families for being recognized as a National Blue Ribbon School!  This coveted award affirms the hard work of students, educators, families, and communities for exemplary teaching and learning. Ridgecrest joins with 366 schools across the nation for being recognized as ‘the best of the best!’  

Ridgecrest Elementary staff understand that relationships precede learning; they work hard to create a strong, values-based, inclusive environment within the context of a trusting and caring school community. This supportive environment is the real secret of their success. Dr. Michelle Fox, Ridgecrest principal, put it this way, “When students and staff feel not only welcome, but wanted; not only valued, but honored; not only trusted, but empowered; they will not only succeed but thrive.” High expectations for all students create the conditions for student success. As evidence, Ridgecrest has received nine different state educational awards for achievement, growth, and closing gaps among various at-risk subgroups since 2011.

The National Blue Ribbon Schools Program recognizes public and private schools based on their overall academic excellence or their progress in closing achievement gaps among student subgroups. Every year the U. S. Department of Education seeks out and celebrates great American schools, schools demonstrating that all students can achieve to high levels. 

Congratulations once again to the entire Ridgecrest Elementary community for this prestigious honor!