Kent Heights Elementary Named a 2016 National Blue Ribbon School

EAST PROVIDENCE, RI—Kent Heights Elementary School has just received one of the highest honors possible for a public school.

The Title I school that serves a diverse population has been named a 2014 Blue Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education.

The honor is reserved for schools that demonstrate academic excellence, a strong school culture, opportunities for all students and continued progress among all students.

"Kent Heights is a welcoming and strong learning community with an ideal school climate, eager students, a committed faculty and parents/guardians, a focused leadership team, and dedicated volunteers," school officials wrote in their application.

The school is one of eight public elementary schools in East Providence and one of just 329 National Blue Ribbon Schools named in 2016.

"National Blue Ribbon Schools are proof that we can prepare every child for college and meaningful careers," said U.S. Secretary of Education John B. King said in a video message to honorees. "Your schools are on the cutting edge, pioneering innovative educational practices—professional learning communities, project-based learning, social and emotional learning, positive behavior systems—making you shining examples for your communities, your state and the nation."

According to a school summary posted by the Department of Education, "while Kent Heights is a neighborhood school with strong community involvement and support, its students needs’ vary greatly. The Kent Heights School Community is a true collaboration of parents, teachers, and students striving to excel. The faculty and staff love what they do and are relentless in their pursuit to meet the needs of all children."

Read the school's full application HERE.