Posted on 9/22/2023

Don Estridge High Tech Middle School in Boca Raton and Suncoast Community High School in Riviera Beach are on the list of just 14 schools in Florida recognized by the U.S. Department of Education as National Blue Ribbon Schools for 2023.

The Department of Education bestows the designation on schools in one of two performance categories, based on all student scores, subgroup student scores, and graduation rates:

• Exemplary High-Performing Schools are among their state’s highest performing schools as measured by state assessments or nationally normed tests.

• Exemplary Achievement Gap-Closing Schools are among their state’s highest performing schools in closing achievement gaps. Nominated schools also complete an extensive narrative application describing their school culture, philosophy, curriculum, assessments, instructional practices, professional development, leadership structures, as well as parent and community involvement.

As honorees for the 2023 National Blue Ribbon Schools Award, Don Estridge High Tech Middle and Suncoast High have set a national example, demonstrating that their teachers and staff are dedicated to encouraging academic excellence and building positive school cultures that support students of all backgrounds.

The coveted National Blue Ribbon Schools award affirms the hard work of educators, families and communities in creating safe and welcoming schools where students master challenging and engaging content. With its 40th cohort, the National Blue Ribbon Schools Program has bestowed approximately 10,000 awards to more than 9,000 schools.