Hawkins Elementary School (HES) is among 300 schools in the nation to receive the Blue Ribbon School designation.

Founded in 1982, the National Blue Ribbon Schools Program recognizes public and private elementary, middle, and high schools where students perform at very high levels or where significant improvements are being made in students’ academic achievement. A National Blue Ribbon Schools flag overhead has become a mark of excellence in education recognized by everyone from parents to policy-makers in thousands of communities.

The U.S. Department of Education is responsible for administering the Blue Ribbon Schools Program. To be considered for Blue Ribbon School Recognition by the U.S. Department of Education, a Texas public school must be nominated by the commissioner of education. Nominated campuses are elected through analysis of student assessment and student demographic data.

HES received this award for their hard work and effort as an “Exemplary Achievement Gap Closing School.”

This designation means Hawkins Elementary School is among the state’s highest performing schools in closing achievement gaps and consistently produces outstanding results for all students. Representatives from Hawkins ISD will be traveling to Washington D.C. in November to receive the award.

Principal Stephanie McConnell says, “It is truly an honor to have our school selected among the best in the nation. This prestigious award speaks to the amazing work and dedication of our teachers, school staff, students, and parents. Our commitment has always been to put students first and to work individually with students on a daily basis. The biggest reward is the recognition of students and staff for their hard work and high performance needed to attain this award.”

Superintendent Morris Lyon said, “We are so excited for Mrs. McConnell, her staff and students at Hawkins Elementary School for their designation as a 2019 National Blue Ribbon School. The teachers, parents and students have been working hard to achieve personal growth for all. This recognition, through closing the achievement gaps, is a great way to celebrate the hard work of our students and teachers. The vision, to be the model of a learner-centered school, set forth by our district has been exemplified by our elementary school through this award. We are so proud of our school family.”