Congressman Robert Aderholt (R-Haleyville) today made the following statement on Cullman's West Point Elementary School being named a 2010 National Blue Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education. This is the second Cullman elementary school in as many years, as West Elementary School was named a Blue Ribbon School last year. Education Secretary Arne Duncan made the announcement yesterday at the School Without Walls, a 2010 Blue Ribbon School in Washington, DC.
"An investment in our young people's education is one of the most valuable investments that we as a nation can make," said Congressman Aderholt. "We are extremely proud of Principal Shireen Coleman, her staff and the West Point Elementary School students and parents for the great accomplishment of being named a Blue Ribbon School. It takes a lot of patience and perseverance to strive for such an accomplishment and actually obtain it - this is a testament to the entire community's commitment to education and hard work."
"Our nation has a responsibility to help all children realize their full potential," said Education Secretary Arne Duncan. "Schools honored with the Blue Ribbon Schools award are committed to achievement and to ensuring that students learn and succeed. Their work reflects the conviction that every child has promise and must receive a quality education."
Only three other Alabama schools made the 2010 list -- Anna F. Booth Elementary School in Irvington, Fruithurst Elementary School in Fruithurst and Montana Street Magnet School in Dothan. From 2003 to 2009, only 17 Alabama schools have been name Blue Ribbon Schools. This year, 254 public and 50 private schools have been honored with this award. In the past 28 years, more than 6,000 of America's schools have received this coveted award.
Principal Shireen Coleman and one teacher from the school will be invited to a special awards ceremony in Washington D.C. in November to receive a Blue Ribbon Schools plaque and a flag to signify its status.
The Blue Ribbon Schools Program honors public and private elementary, middle and high schools whose students achieve at very high levels or have made significant progress and helped close gaps in achievement, especially among disadvantaged and minority students. The program is part of a larger Department of Education effort to identify and disseminate knowledge about best school leadership and teaching practices.