Old Donation School (ODS) has been named a 2022 National Blue Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education as an Exemplary High Performing School.

"We are extraordinarily proud of this achievement by the Old Donation School," said Dr. Aaron Spence, superintendent of Virginia Beach City Public Schools. "This is an outstanding and well-earned accomplishment, showcasing the dedication of the students, teachers, staff and administrative team to pursue academic excellence every day."

ODS was recognized by the Virginia Department of Education for its academic excellence and is a shining example of a school that models high quality instruction that is student-centered, open-ended, conceptually based, and inquiry driven. The staff members are strong collaborators who use gifted education methods to organize robust and engaging instruction that balances high expectations with equally strong support. Guests routinely visit the school to learn about gifted education, innovation, sustainability, and using a LEED building as a teaching tool.

“I applaud all the honorees for the 2022 National Blue Ribbon Schools Award for creating vibrant, welcoming, and affirming school communities where students can learn, grow, reach their potential, and achieve their dreams,” said U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona. “As our country continues to recover from the pandemic, we know that our future will only be as strong as the education we provide to all of our children. Blue Ribbon Schools have gone above and beyond to keep students healthy and safe while meeting their academic, social, emotional, and mental health needs. These schools show what is possible to make an enduring, positive difference in students’ lives.”

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 Old Donation 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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