North Kingstown High School is recognized for academic excellence by receiving the highest honor that an American school can attain. 

NKHS received the 2021 Blue Ribbon Award on Friday, Nov. 5. According to the United States Department of Education, the Blue Ribbon Award recognizes public and private elementary, middle, and high schools for academic achievements and closing learning gaps among student subgroups. The award acknowledges the hard work and dedication of students, teachers, faculty, and families in contributing to the school environment where students are able to thrive in the classroom. 

Principal, Dr. Barbara Morse believes that the Blue Ribbon Award is, “A wonderful verification of the teamwork that goes on in this school between students, teachers, and faculty. To win the Blue Ribbon Award, it takes the whole school environment. It is not about one test or one year, it’s about an ongoing building of a quality school program and that our students are consistently doing well.” 

The Blue Ribbon Award is a highly prestigious award that not many schools are able to acquire. 

In order to be nominated for the award, a school must be in the top 15 percent for achievement and growth over time. The high school won the award in the category of high academic achievement. 

Superintendent, Dr. Philip Auger explained that the award is a community effort. In order to achieve the award backup is needed from supportive school committees, parents, taxpayers, and voters.

“I think it means that we are on the right track and all of our efforts are recognized,” said Dr. Morse. “It’s nice to have the affirmation that we are all doing great work here, especially all of the students and teachers are doing great work.” 

There are over 300 schools in RI and Dr. Auger believes that being one of the three schools to receive the Blue Ribbon Award in 2021 is a privilege. The district has five Blue Ribbon schools, three of which were received in the last eight years. 

NKHS was one of the 325 U.S. schools that received the 2021 Blue Ribbon.

Blue Ribbon Award Media