3 RI Schools Named In 2020 National Blue Ribbon List

NARRAGANSETT, RI — Two Rhode Island schools were named some of the best in the country by the U.S. Department of Education. All three schools named in the 2020 list of National Blue Ribbon Schools are located in South County.

This year's Rhode Island honorees are Charlestown Elementary School, Kingstown Hill Academy in Saunderstown and Narragansett Elementary School.

"Congratulations to our school communities — Charlestown Elementary, Kingston Hill Academy, and Narragansett Elementary — who earned this high honor from the U.S. Department of Education," said Commissioner of Elementary and Secondary Education Angélica Infante-Green. "This award is a credit to the teachers, school staff, students, and families who work hard every day to create environments in which children can learn and thrive. They are shining examples of Excellence in Learning in Rhode Island."

The U.S. Department of Education recognizes schools based on several metrics, including student scores and graduation rates. Both high-performing schools and those closing achievement gaps are honored. For nearly four decades, the program has awarded nearly 10,000 honors to approximately 9,000 schools. Each year, up to 420 schools can be nominated, and a school is eligible after five years.

"I am beyond proud of our school community for receiving this prestigious honor as we celebrate our 20th Birthday," said Alison Carr, the chief administrator of Kingston Hill Academy. "Anyone who has spent any time at Kingston Hill Academy can attest to the uniqueness of our culture and the dedication of our extraordinary staff. Success comes when groups of people rise up to support a common goal. This speaks to the way our educators work together to support each student, giving them what they need and meeting them where they are to help them grow."

The three winners will be honored at a virtual ceremony on Nov. 12 and 13.

"The Chariho Regional School District is so proud of the work at Charlestown Elementary School, where our students show perseverance, tenacity, and a love of learning," Chariho Superintendent Gina Picard said. "While the school community collectively understands the needs and struggles of all our students, that never interferes with the teachers’ ability to ensure we have high expectations and stretch students' thinking. The dedicated work of Jennifer Poore, the principal, our educators, and support staff at Charlestown make the school a shining success."

"Earning the distinction of a Blue Ribbon School is a testament to the tremendous work of the faculty, staff, administration, students, and families of Narragansett Elementary School," said Peter Cummings, the Narragansett superintendent. "We are particularly proud of the recognition for closing achievement gaps. Our students have demonstrated resilience to overcome challenges, and our dedicated and talented faculty and administration have ensured all students can grow and thrive. We are grateful for the support of the Narragansett School Committee and the entire Narragansett community to make this possible."

More information about all the 2020 winners is available online.