The United States Department of Education recently named Stone Mill Elementary School a 2023 National Blue Ribbon School.
Six Maryland schools join the 353 across the nation to earn the prestigious award this year. The other schools in Maryland include Church Hill Elementary School and Matapeake Elementary School in Queen Anne’s County, Northeast Elementary School in Allegany County, Oakdale High School in Frederick County and Smithsburg Middle School in Washington County.
The U.S. Department of Education’s National Blue Ribbon Schools program is awarded annually to schools based on overall academic excellence or progress in closing achievement gaps among student groups. Schools are eligible every five years. A recognition ceremony will take place on November 16-17.
Stone Mill is the 43rd Montgomery County Public School to receive this honor.
“What an incredible example of how highly engaged staff can partner with parents and community members and get extraordinary results for our students. This is a perfect illustration of what the district prioritizes for all of its schools,” said MPCS Superintendent Monifa B. McKnight in a statement.
Stone Mill is located in North Potomac and serves 558 students. More than 75% of the students are either identified as gifted and talented or work above grade level. Stone Mill has the largest special education preschool education program (PEP) in MCPS. About 20 percent of its students are English Language Learners (ELLs). The school was able to earn this significant recognition because of its dedication to each of its students, its focus on individual data and its strong leadership.
According to a statement, Stone Mill relies on relationships and community to support its academic and social-emotional work with children. School staff work to create a positive, professional and engaging culture to inspire children to work hard. Children start every day with ‘Stone Mill Expectations,’ which remind everyone to be their best selves. Staff believe that everyone is important, and that diversity keeps everyone strong and learning. Stone Mill is a place where children can become all they imagine.
“I am incredibly proud of the staff, students and community who have worked tirelessly to make Stone Mill a shining example of student engagement, hard work and success,” said Stone Mill Principal, Dr. Kimberly Williams Cascio. “In my 23rd year as the principal of Stone Mill, I am still honored every day to work with the amazing people who call Stone Mill their home.”
Congratulations to the six Maryland schools who have been named 2023 National Blue Ribbon Exemplary High Performing Schools!
Northeast Elementary School, @ACPSchools
Oakdale High School, @FCPSMaryland
Stone Mill Elementary School, @MCPS
Church Hill Elementary School, @QACPSMD… pic.twitter.com/44OsCDr1R4— Maryland State Department of Education (@MdPublicSchools) September 19, 2023
Congratulations to the 2023 National Blue Ribbon School awardees🏅#NBRS2023 https://t.co/QTfUWkvZyd pic.twitter.com/zDi6j7ITml
— National Blue Ribbon (@NatlBlueRibbon) September 19, 2023
Photo courtesy MCPS
