Bella Vista Elementary earns National Blue Ribbon
Sep 23, 2024, 7:00 PM
Faculty at Bella Vista Elementary pose for a photo Monday morning after being told they are a Blue-Ribbon School. (Canyons School District)
(Canyons School District)
COTTONWOOD HEIGHTS, Utah — Bella Vista Elementary has earned one of the most distinguished awards in education: the National Blue Ribbon.
The National Blue Ribbon
Each year, the U.S. Department of Education recognizes schools that show outstanding academic performance.
“Only a select number of schools are even invited to apply for Blue Ribbon status each year,” said Canyons School District Superintendent Dr. Rick Robins. “This honor is truly reserved for the nation’s most exemplary schools — and this designation for the Tigers does not come as a surprise given Bella Vista’s strong track record over the years.”
The Department of Education only allows 420 nominations each year.
Nationally, only 356 schools earned a National Blue Ribbon in 2024, including three from Utah. Edgemont Elementary School (Provo) and River Heights Elementary School (River Heights) also won the prestigious award this year.
“The National Blue Ribbon Schools Award is a testament to the exceptional achievements of students and educators at each of these schools,” said U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona. “The 2024 National Blue Ribbon Schools are raising the bar for our nation’s students. Let us look to these schools for inspiration as we champion education as the foundation of a brighter future for every child.”
Bella Vista Elementary celebrates
Bella Vista Elementary staff celebrated the announcement on Monday. The previous principal, Angi Holden, also joined the celebration. Holden served as the principal of Bella Vista when it was nominated.
“Teachers, you should be proud. Bella Vista has an excellent reputation as a strong school, and we challenged each other to reach even higher,” said Principal Barbra Winder on Monday morning.
On Tuesday, they plan to hold a special assembly to share the news with their students. In addition, a team from Bella Vista will attend a congratulatory ceremony held in Washington, D.C. this November.
“The blue-ribbon designation is a tremendous source of pride for not just the Bella Vista community but all of Canyons School District,” said Board President Amber Shill. “On behalf of the Board of Education, I congratulate all teachers, staff, parents, and students for this amazing accomplishment.”
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