BYNUM, Texas — Bynum School and Valley Mills High School have been recognized as National Blue Ribbon Schools this year, among 31 other Texas schools.
Both schools were recognized as Blue Ribbon designees in February and were just recently named as winners.
The National Blue Ribbon is a program led by the United States Department of Education, and is a prestigious award given to deserving elementary, middle, and high schools across the country.
The honor recognizes schools with exemplary academic success, as well as schools who have made significant improvements to their student's academic achievement.
"We are so proud of both Bynum School and Valley Mills High School for being awarded the National Blue Ribbon School honor," said Federal Programs Education Specialist at Education Service Center Region 12 Ellen Hogan. "It is obvious that they have worked diligently to close achievement gaps between student groups and are focused on meeting the academic needs of each child on each campus."
Bynum ISD Superintendent Larry Mynarcik has also voiced his congratulations to the school:
"I am excited about the great work happening in Bynum ISD and we are honored to be recognized," Mynarcik stated. "We have great students, teachers, administrators, and parents who have made academic success a priority. Their hard work and commitment has allowed our small district to shine. I am grateful to be part of a dedicated and committed team!"
Mynarcik is not the only proud superintendent to encourage their schools, as Valley Mills ISD Superintendent Chris Dowdy has also offered praise to the high school.
"We are ecstatic for the administration, staff and students of Valley Mills High School!" said Dowdy, excitedly. "Being recognized as a Blue Ribbon school, one of only 297 in the entire nation, is such a tremendous accomplishment. To be honored with this prestigious award is a culmination of grit and dedication by all stakeholders within VMHS and the District."
Valley Mills Elementary School received the National Blue Ribbon Award in 2021.
Only 297 schools across the entire United States received the Blue Ribbon award this year. Out those 297, 31 of them were from Texas.