[Grundy Center, Iowa] Approximately 8 months ago Jay Pennington, Bureau Chief at the Iowa Department of Education(IDOE), asked if a team and I would be willing to accept the IDOE nomination to be 1 of 5 schools in Iowa to complete the
application process for potential national recognition as a Blue Ribbon School! I am happy to report as of noon today that
Grundy Center Middle School has been recognized by the U.S. Department of Education as an outstanding public school based on our overall high academic achievement!
“Each year, the U.S. Department of Education works with state departments of education to identify and nominate outstanding
schools for this coveted award based on student academic achievement measures and progress toward closing achievement
gaps. Through a rigorous review process, the U.S. Department of Education awards several hundred outstanding schools
annually, to celebrate their achievement. This prestigious award serves not only as a symbol of exemplary American schools,
but also as inspiration for schools across the nation,” according to the U.S. Department of Education and National Blue Ribbon
Schools Program.
Grundy Center Middle School is recognized as an Iowa High Performing School in a number of federal and state performance
measures, which aided in its nomination. According to the Blue Ribbon Schools program, an “Exemplary High Performing”
school has the highest achieving students (the top 15%) in English-language arts and mathematics, measured by state
assessments.
Public schools are nominated by the Chief State School Officer in each state and all public schools nominated must also meet
their state’s annual measurable performance targets. Up to 420 schools nationwide may be nominated so we are in select
company!
This recognition is a testament to all PK-12 educators at Grundy Center. It affirms the hard work of students, educators,
families, and the community in creating a safe and welcoming school where students thrive. The middle school team in
particular works tirelessly to support the needs of all of our students at a critical stage in their lives. Congratulations to the
middle school and congratulations to the Grundy Center Community School District! Grundy Center is truly a great place to
be! #SpartanPride
