FOR MORE INFORMATION: 

Sara McDonald Barksdale 

404.213.8346 

[email protected]

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Atlanta Academy Honored as 2024 National Blue Ribbon School for 

Exemplary High Performance
School receives prestigious recognition from U.S. Department of Education and proclamation of Atlanta Academy Day by Roswell Mayor Kurt Wilson

ATLANTA (Nov. 25, 2024) – Atlanta Academy is proud to announce its recognition as a 2024 National Blue Ribbon School, an esteemed honor awarded by the U.S. Department of Education to schools demonstrating exceptional academic performance or significant progress in closing achievement gaps. In celebration of this achievement, Mayor Kurt Wilson declared Thursday, November 14, 2024, as Atlanta Academy Day, recognizing the school’s commitment to academic excellence, innovative practices and its vital role in shaping the future of its students and community. This marks Atlanta Academy’s second time receiving this award, having previously been recognized in 2017 under the Exemplary High Performing School category, which includes schools among the highest performers in their state.

U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona recognized 356 schools nationwide for their excellence this year. “The National Blue Ribbon Schools Award is a testament to the exceptional achievements of students and educators at each of these schools," said Secretary Cardona. "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."

National Blue Ribbon Schools demonstrate the full diversity of American education, sharing a common commitment to excellence and innovation. These schools are led by visionary leaders, showcase effective teaching practices and prioritize robust professional development for their staff. Their success is built on data-driven instruction, high standards and collaboration among families, communities and educators. 

"At Atlanta Academy, our mission is to nurture not only academic excellence but also the social and emotional well-being of every student," said Principal of Atlanta Academy Angela Naples. "Being named a 2024 National Blue Ribbon School reflects our commitment to building a community founded on kindness, inclusion and respect. When students feel safe, accepted and valued, they are empowered to excel academically and grow as confident, compassionate individuals. This honor celebrates the collective dedication of our students, staff and families to creating an environment where every child can thrive and succeed."

Atlanta Academy's designation as a 2024 National Blue Ribbon School highlights its dedication to fostering academic excellence, equity and community collaboration. As a National Blue Ribbon School, Atlanta Academy will proudly display the award flag, symbolizing exceptional teaching and learning, and serving as an inspiration to educators nationwide.

The 2024 National Blue Ribbon Schools reflect the full diversity of American education and serve students from all backgrounds. While awardees represent a wide array of schools, they share common traits. National Blue Ribbon Schools are led by leaders who articulate a clear vision of instructional excellence and uphold high standards. 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. 

The Department recognizes all schools based on student performance data, including assessment results, student subgroup performance and graduation rates. Schools are recognized in both or either of two performance categories:

• Exemplary High Performing Schools: These schools are among the top performers in their state as measured by state assessments or nationally normed tests.

• Exemplary Achievement Gap Closing Schools: These schools excel in narrowing achievement gaps between different student groups and the overall student body.

Each nominated school submits a comprehensive application detailing its school culture, programs, assessments, instructional practices, professional development, leadership, family and community involvement.

About Atlanta Academy

Atlanta Academy, located in Roswell, Ga., is a non-denominational private school serving children in preschool through grade 8. Founded in 2000, the school is dedicated to providing a well-rounded education that nurtures academic excellence, creativity, and social and emotional intelligence. With an enrollment of 395 students and over 75 dedicated faculty and staff, Atlanta Academy fosters a dynamic, collaborative, and nurturing learning environment, preparing students to thrive as confident, thoughtful, and engaged global citizens. For more information on Atlanta Academy, please visit https://www.atlantaacademy.com. 

About National Blue Ribbon Schools

The National Blue Ribbon Schools Program recognizes public and private elementary, middle, and high schools based on their overall academic excellence or their progress in closing achievement gaps among student subgroups. Every year since the Program was established in 1982, the U. S. Department of Education has sought out and highlighted schools that are demonstrating that all students can achieve to high levels. The coveted National Blue Ribbon School award affirms the hard work of students, educators, families, and communities that are creating safe and welcoming schools where students master challenging and engaging content. A National Blue Ribbon School flag gracing a school’s entryway or on a flagpole is a widely recognized symbol of exemplary teaching and learning. For more information about the 2024 National Blue Ribbon Schools, including photographs and brief descriptions, visit https://nationalblueribbonschools.ed.gov/.

###