National Blue Ribbon Schools

Since the National Blue Ribbon Schools program was established by the U.S. Secretary of Education in 1982, it has developed into a national school improvement strategy with three purposes. First, it identifies and recognizes outstanding public and private schools across the nation. Second, the program makes research-based effectiveness criteria available to all schools so they can assess themselves and plan improvements. Third, the program encourages schools, both within and among themselves, to share information about best practices based on a common understanding of criteria related to educational success.

National Blue Ribbon Schools are models of both excellence and equity. To be recognized, a school must demonstrate a strong commitment to educational excellence for all students. The program recognizes schools that have demonstrated sustained success in achieving these values.

The Upper St. Clair School District currently flies 13 National Blue Ribbon flags, one or more awards for every individual USC school building.