Charleston Schools Achieve National Recognition with Blue Ribbon Awards

Charleston Schools Achieve National Recognition with Blue Ribbon Awards

CHARLESTON, S.C. – In a significant achievement for the Charleston County School District, two schools have been awarded the National Blue Ribbon Schools designation by the U.S. Department of Education. This recognition is especially noteworthy as it comes after a 20-year gap since two schools in the district were last honored.

National Blue Ribbon Schools Announced

The schools receiving this prestigious award are Academic Magnet High School and Buist Academy. Buist Academy has made history by becoming the district’s first-ever multi-year recipient of this honor, having previously received the award in 2017. The achievement marks the first time in three years that a school in the Charleston County district has been recognized with such an accolade.

Principal Shawntay White of Buist Academy expressed pride in the school community’s dedication to learning and education. “Today, we celebrate the hard work, dedication, and commitment of our Buist educators, students, and families who have made this achievement possible,” she said. Principal White emphasized that being named a National Blue Ribbon School showcases their commitment to providing an exceptional education.

Focus on Continuous Improvement

Principal White highlighted the rigorous nomination process that occurs every five years, pointing out that being recognized twice in seven years is a significant accomplishment. She noted that throughout the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and school restructuring, the focus on continuous improvement and building relationships has remained strong, showcasing innovative teaching and learning practices.

Academic Magnet’s First-Time Honor

On the other hand, Academic Magnet High School is experiencing its first-time honor as a National Blue Ribbon School. According to Principal Jacob Perlmutter, the comprehensive application process allowed the school team to reflect on the strengths of their community. “The process made us more conscious of our daily mission and, at least for me, made me even more appreciative of the special place I get to work every day,” Perlmutter stated.

Criteria for Recognition

The National Blue Ribbon Schools recognition is awarded based on a school’s overall academic performance and their progress in closing achievement gaps among various student groups. The Charleston County School District now boasts a total of 13 schools that have received this esteemed recognition since the program’s inception.

Schools Background

Academic Magnet High School was established in 1988 and currently has an enrollment of approximately 734 students at its location in North Charleston. Buist Academy, on the other hand, began serving students in downtown Charleston in 1985 and has an enrollment of around 520 students. Both schools reflect a strong commitment to academic excellence and a supportive learning environment for their students.

Community and Future Aspirations

As Charleston County celebrates this accomplishment, both schools are looking forward to continuing their mission of providing high-quality education to their students. The recognition serves as a testament to the hard work of students, teachers, and the wider community in fostering an environment conducive to learning and growth.

This recent achievement not only highlights the success of these two schools but also shines a light on the dedication of educators and families within the Charleston County School District. The pride in the community is palpable, and it sets a hopeful tone for the future of education in the area.