Tallwood Elementary School has been named a 2019 National Blue Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education as an Exemplary High Performing School.

"We are thrilled for the students, teachers, staff and administrative team at Tallwood Elementary School," said Dr. Aaron Spence, superintendent of Virginia Beach City Public Schools. "This is an extraordinary achievement, showcasing the dedication of the Tallwood community to pursue academic excellence for every student in their building, every day."

Tallwood was recognized by the Virginia Department of Education for its academic excellence and for closing achievement gaps among student subgroups, demonstrating that all children can succeed in the classroom.

To qualify for the Exemplary High Performing Schools designation, Tallwood ranked in the top 15% of all schools in Virginia in both reading and math. In addition, the school's student subgroups placed in the top 40% of all schools for both reading and math.

"We recognize and honor your important work in preparing students for successful careers and meaningful lives," said U.S. Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos in a video message to the honorees. "As a National Blue Ribbon School, your school demonstrates what is possible when committed educators hold all students and staff to high standards and create vibrant, innovative cultures of teaching and learning."

Tallwood students represent a wide socio-economic spectrum, speaking 12 languages in addition to English. The school offers a comprehensive "Plan, Teach and Assess" continuum, focuses on equity and excellence for all learners and provides students an in-depth understanding of cultures, a comprehensive curriculum and authentic assessments using one-to-one technology.

Established in 1982, the Blue Ribbon Schools Program honors public and private elementary, middle and high schools where students achieve very high learning standards or are making notable improvements in closing achievement gaps. The award affirms the hard work of students, educators, families and communities in creating safe and welcoming schools where students master challenging content.

The Blue Ribbon award will be officially presented to Tallwood Elementary School during a November ceremony in Washington, D.C.

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Department of Communications and Community Engagement, [email protected]

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