ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — A local school has received national recognition because of its student performance data.
The U.S. Department of Education has named Martin L. Nesbitt Jr. Discovery Academy — a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) focused high school — a 2024 National Blue Ribbon School.
For the first time, the Buncombe County Schools system has received the distinction in back-to-back years, with Fairview Elementary School honored as a National Blue Ribbon School in 2023. U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona announced the 2024 recipients Monday afternoon. Nesbitt Discovery Academy is one of only 356 schools across the country to be named a National Blue Ribbon School this year.
“We are beyond proud of the students, teachers, staff, and families who have worked together to create an incredible learning community,” Buncombe County Schools Superintendent Dr. Rob Jackson said in a news release. “The rigorous, innovative and engaging lessons that we witness in classrooms go beyond the walls of the school. From the school hosting a community STEM Day to Nesbitt students mentoring younger students to design the outdoor classroom space at Johnston Elementary, there’s much to celebrate with the staff and students at Nesbitt.”
National Blue Ribbon Schools have leaders who articulate a clear vision of instructional excellence and uphold high standards, the news release said. They showcase effective teaching methods and offer robust professional development for their staff. Data-driven instruction is a hallmark, and there is a concerted effort to ensure every student succeeds. Collaboration among families, communities, and educators is a key component of their success.
“The National Blue Ribbon Schools Award is a testament to the exceptional achievements of students and educators at each of these schools,” Cardona said in the release. “The 2024 National Blue Ribbon Schools are raising the bar for our nation’s students, serving as models for effective teaching and intentional collaboration in their schools and communities. As we celebrate their achievements, let us look to these schools for inspiration as we champion education as the foundation of a brighter future for every child.”
The Department of Education recognizes National Blue Ribbon Schools based on student performance data, including assessment results, student subgroup performance and graduation rates.
“The National Blue Ribbon School Award is an incredible honor and a testament to the dedicated team of educators at Nesbitt Discovery Academy,” Nesbitt Principal Will Thrasher said in the release. “We’re proud that their efforts continue to be recognized for the work happening in our school every day.”
Earlier this month, the North Carolina Board of Education recognized Nesbitt Discovery Academy as a North Carolina Model STEM School of Distinction.
Buncombe County Schools is now home to five schools that have been named National Blue Ribbon Schools. In addition to Nesbitt Discovery Academy and Fairview Elementary, Pisgah Elementary, Emma Elementary and A.C. Reynolds High School have also received the prestigious distinction.
The National Blue Ribbon Schools Program is a United States Department of Education award program that recognizes exemplary public and non-public schools yearly.