San Leandro School Earns Prestigious Federal Blue Ribbon Award

SAN LEANDRO, CA — U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona announced on Monday that 356 schools across the nation were named as 2024 National Blue Ribbon Schools, including 30 in California and one in San Leandro.

Madison Elementary School was recognized in the category Exemplary Achievement Gap Closing Schools. Among the reasons why it was chosen, "We provide an outstanding program for students, including amazing prep classes in Art, Music, Instruments, and physical education. We offer an expanded learning opportunities program (ELOP) as a free after-school program with homework assistance, leadership, and enrichment opportunities."

The prestigious national recognition highlights schools that either excel in academic performance or make significant strides in closing achievement gaps among different student groups:

• Exemplary High Performing Schools

These schools are among the top performers in their state as measured by state assessments or nationally normed tests.

• Exemplary Achievement Gap Closing Schools

These schools excel in narrowing achievement gaps between different student groups and the overall student body.

Elsewhere in the East Bay Alameda, Berkeley, Castro Valley, Fremont, and Hayward also had schools selected. In the wider Bay Area, three San Jose schools were chosen.

"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."