We all want the best for our children and much of that begins with a good education. It's so important that even the schools are graded on their performance. Just today, 3 Capital Region schools and 2 Hudson Valley schools have been named "Blue Ribbon Schools" for 2021.

What exactly is a Blue Ribbon School? According to the United States Department of Education, a National Blue Ribbon School is a public or private school that is recognized based on their overall academic excellence or their progress in closing achievement gaps among student subgroups. This includes kindergarten, elementary, middle and high schools.

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Here are the 3 Capital Region schools named Blue Ribbon Schools 2021:

These schools are celebrated as a great American school demonstrating that all students can achieve to high levels. The Blue Ribbon honor started in the early 1980's and the program has granted more than 10,000 awards to over 9,000 schools. Here are 2 Hudson Valley Schools named Blue Ribbon Schools for 2021:

There are only 325 schools in the United States that are recognized with the Blue Ribbon honor. Earlier today, U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona revealed all of the schools with academic prowess during the coronavirus pandemic.

This year's cohort of honorees demonstrates what is possible when committed educators and school leaders create vibrant, welcoming, and affirming school cultures where rich teaching and learning can flourish, - Miguel Cardona 

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