Teutopolis Junior High School Recognized as National Blue Ribbon School

Teutopolis Junior High School is among the 353 schools recognized by the US Department of Education as a National Blue Ribbon Schools for 2023. The recognition is based on a school’s overall academic performance and affirms the hard work of students, educators, families, and communities in striving for and attaining exemplary achievement.

“The honorees for our 2023 National Blue Ribbon Schools Award have set a national example for what it means to Raise the Bar in education,” said U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona. “The leaders, educators, and staff at our National Blue Ribbon Schools continually inspire me with their dedication to fostering academic excellence and building positive school cultures that support students of all backgrounds to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.”

“Being identified as a National Blue Ribbon School is an incredible honor for our students, staff and families of Teutopolis,” said Superintendent Matthew Sturgeon. “I am continually impressed by the commitment to connect with and challenge our students to become the best versions of themselves.”

While awardee schools share some core elements, National Blue Ribbon School leaders articulate a vision of excellence and hold everyone to high standards. They demonstrate effective and innovative teaching and learning, and the schools value and support teachers and staff through meaningful professional learning. Data from many sources are used to drive instruction and every student strives for success. Families, communities, and educators work together toward common goals.

Principal Pat Drees said, “Teutopolis Junior High School is humbled and honored to be named a 2023 National Blue Ribbon School. This award not only recognizes the tremendous work of our school, but of our community as well. Thank you to all those who have played a part in the successes, past and present, at Teutopolis Junior High School.”

The Department recognizes all schools in one of two performance categories, based on all student scores, subgroup student scores and graduation rates:

• Exemplary High-Performing Schools are among their state’s highest performing schools as measured by state assessments or nationally normed tests.

• Exemplary Achievement Gap-Closing Schools are among their state’s highest performing schools in closing achievement gaps between a school’s student groups and all students.

Nominated schools also complete an extensive narrative application describing their school culture and philosophy, curriculum, assessments, instructional practices, professional development, leadership structures, and parent and community involvement.