Cave Creek Unified School District is pleased to announce that Horseshoe Trails Elementary School has been named a 2020 National Blue Ribbon School by the US Department of Education.
Yesterday, U.S. Secretary of Education, Betsy DeVos, recognized 367 schools as National Blue Ribbon Schools for 2020. The recognition is based on a school’s overall academic performance or progress in closing achievement gaps among student subgroups.
“Congratulations to this year’s National Blue Ribbon School awardees,” said Secretary DeVos. “It’s a privilege to recognize the extraordinary work you do to meet students’ needs and prepare them for successful careers and meaningful lives.”
Principal Aaron Pettinato, in a letter to his Stallion Families said, “It is with great honor and excitement to let you know that our school has been recognized by the U.S. Department of Education as an Exemplary High Performing National Blue Ribbon School. U.S. Secretary of Education, Betsy DeVos, sent a communication this morning announcing that Horseshoe Trails is one of 367 schools in the nation and one of only five schools from our state of Arizona to be recognized as a 2020 National Blue Ribbon recipient.”
The coveted National Blue Ribbon Schools award affirms the hard work of educators, families, and communities in creating safe and welcoming schools where students master challenging and engaging content. Now in its 38th year, the National Blue Ribbon Schools Program has bestowed almost 10,000 awards to more than 9,000 schools, with some schools winning multiple awards. Schools are eligible for nomination after five years.
The Education Department recognizes all schools in one of two performance categories, based on all student scores, student subgroup scores and graduation rates:
• Exemplary High Performing Schools – These are among their state’s highest performing schools as measured by state assessments or nationally normed tests.
• Exemplary Achievement Gap Closing Schools – These are among their state’s highest performing in closing achievement gaps between a school’s student groups and all students.
Superintendent Debbi Burdick said, “The entire CCUSD Family could not be prouder of Horseshoe Trails Elementary School. Being recognized as an Exemplary High Performing National Blue Ribbon School is a prestigious honor and validates the dedication and superior skill of the entire staff. This is a school community that ensures that every student not only achieves to their potential, but also loves learning. Congratulations HTES!”
The 2020 National Blue Ribbon Schools Awards Ceremony will be held virtually Nov. 12 and 13.
For more information regarding Horseshoe Trails Elementary School, please contact Principal Pettinato at [email protected] or by calling 480-272-8500.
