The Great Neck Public Schools is pleased to announce that the U.S. Department of Education has named Lakeville Elementary School as a 2024 National Blue Ribbon School. Lakeville Elementary is one of 356 schools in the country to receive this prestigious national designation in 2024, and one of only two schools on Long Island.

“This designation is a tremendous honor for Lakeville Elementary School and our district,” says Superintendent Dr. Kenneth R. Bossert. “Our community takes great pride in our commitment to educational excellence, and I applaud Lakeville’s students, families, faculty, and administrators for their outstanding efforts to cultivate a supportive environment that encourages collaboration, learning, and discovery.”

This is the second time that Lakeville Elementary has achieved National Blue Ribbon School status since the program’s inception in 1982. Lakeville was previously recognized in 2009.

“Being named a National Blue Ribbon School is an honor, and one that affirms the hard work of Lakeville’s students, teachers, and families,” says Lakeville Principal Emily Zucal. “Lakeville’s trajectory of high performance is attributable to students’ investment in their own learning, talented teachers and staff who are committed to meeting the needs of each and every learner, and cooperative and supportive families who are eager to partner with educators to help students meet with success. Lakeville is also fortunate to have and to benefit from the expertise of district-level personnel and a supportive Board of Education who contribute to the success of our school community.”

District officials will represent Lakeville Elementary School at a two-day awards ceremony in Washington, D.C. in November to celebrate this prestigious recognition. The school is also in the process of planning a celebration of its own so the school community can participate.

 “On behalf of the Board of Education, I congratulate the entire Lakeville School community on achieving National Blue Ribbon School status,” says Board President Grant Toch. “This recognition reflects the work of our exceptional educators and dedicated families who work together to support our students in every way—academically, emotionally, and socially—on their path to achieving their personal best.”

The U.S. Department of Education invites nominations for the National Blue Ribbon Schools award from the top education official in all states, with up to 420 schools nominated each year. The nominated schools must submit a comprehensive application detailing its school culture, programs, assessments, instructional practices, professional development, leadership, family, and community involvement.

According to the U.S. Department of Education, the 2024 honorees represent a wide array of schools but share common traits. National Blue Ribbon Schools are led by leaders who articulate a clear vision of instructional excellence and uphold high standards. They showcase effective teaching methods and offer robust professional development for their staff. Data-driven instruction is a hallmark, and there is a concerted effort to ensure every student succeeds. Collaboration among families, communities, and educators is a key component of their success.

“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, serving as models for effective teaching and intentional collaboration in their schools and communities. As we celebrate their achievements, let us look to these schools for inspiration as we champion education as the foundation of a brighter future for every child.”

For more information about the National Blue Ribbon Schools program, visit http://nationalblueribbonschools.ed.gov/.