2 District 203 Schools Land On National Blue Ribbon List

NAPERVILLE, IL — Two Naperville Community Unit School District 203 schools were recently recognized as National Blue Ribbon Schools by the U.S. Department of Education. The distinction, given to just 18 schools in Illinois in 2024, went to Scott Elementary School and Naperville High School.

Schools are nominated annually by state education officials. The National Blue Ribbon Schools are chosen based on students' performance on state assessments and nationally normed tests, along with how well the school does to narrow its achievement gaps and improve graduation rates.

Scott Elementary Principal Hugh Boger called the honor "a testament to the dedication and hard work of our exceptional staff, the perseverance and commitment of our students, and the unwavering support of our wonderful Scott community."

Naperville Central Principal Jackie Thornton expressed her gratitude to district students, staff and community members, saying, "Naperville Central is a remarkable community of dedicated educators who work tirelessly and genuinely care about the success of their students, both inside and outside the classroom."

District 203 Superintendent Dan Bridges said in a statement, "Our district has now earned 12 National Blue Ribbon School awards since 2002. This recognition celebrates the dedication of our educators, families, and communities in creating safe, welcoming schools where students thrive in challenging and engaging environments."

Of the 18 National Blue Ribbon Schools in Illinois, three were located in Naperville, with Neuqua Valley High School in Indian Prairie School District 204 also earning the distinction.