Academy for Science and Design Named 2024 National Blue Ribbon School

U.S. Department of Education Secretary Miguel Cardona has named the Academy for Science and Design (ASD) Chartered Public School an Exemplary Achievement Gap Closing National Blue Ribbon School for 2024. This esteemed recognition places ASD among the nation's top-performing schools in narrowing academic achievement disparities across diverse student groups. ASD is one of only 356 schools nationwide and one of two from New Hampshire to receive this honor in 2024. This marks the second time ASD has been recognized as a National Blue Ribbon School under the leadership of Jennifer Cava, who has served as Director for fifteen years. The school previously received the award for Exemplary High Performance in 2017. Director Cava expressed her pride in the school's continued achievement: "We're proud to be recognized for cultivating an environment where all students can thrive, particularly in STEM-focused subjects. This award affirms ASD's dedication to our students and inspires us to continue pushing the boundaries of what's possible for every learner."

The National Blue Ribbon Schools Program, one of the U.S. Department of Education's most prestigious recognition programs, celebrates outstanding schools that demonstrate high academic achievement or notable success in closing achievement gaps among diverse student groups. Since its inception in 1982, the program has recognized nearly 10,000 schools for their excellence in education.

ASD's recognition as an Exemplary Achievement Gap Closing School highlights its success in significantly reducing achievement disparities among student subgroups in English and mathematics over the past three to five years, as measured by state assessments. Founded in 2007, ASD has grown from 30 students to a thriving middle and high school population of approximately 675. The school's unique STEM-focused curriculum, which evolves from broad exploration in middle school to specialized tracks in high school, has positioned ASD as a leader in STEM education.

ASD's diverse student body, representing over 30 towns across New Hampshire and includes a significant immigrant population, with roughly 25% of enrolled students born outside of the United States, contributing to a rich learning environment that prepares students for leadership in STEM fields and beyond.

ASD will be honored at the National Blue Ribbon Schools awards ceremony in Washington, D.C. in November.

For more information about the Academy for Science and Design, visit www.asdnh.org