The district is proud to announce that Sanford H. Calhoun High School has been named a 2021 National Blue Ribbon School by the United States Department of Education.

Calhoun High School was nominated for the award by the New York State Education Department. District administrators then completed a comprehensive application about school practices. Calhoun High School was recognized as an Exemplary High Performing school – among the top schools in New York State and joins Merrick Avenue Middle School, which received this distinction in 2008.

“Being named a National Blue Ribbon School is an exceptional achievement for Calhoun and Bellmore-Merrick,” said Superintendent Michael Harrington. “This designation is the result of a collective school community effort, as well as a continued commitment to providing educational and engagement opportunities for our students.”

After being nominated by the New York State Education Department based on data from the 2018-19 school year, Calhoun Principal Nicole Hollings had to submit a comprehensive application last year.

“The application that I submitted last year included demographic data, a thorough overview of Calhoun, our educational philosophy, and what makes Calhoun a special place. Information about our curriculum, instruction, assessment, and academic supports were explained,” Hollings explained. “Additionally, there was an extensive section delving into school culture and how we engage students, families, creating professional culture, leadership, and culturally responsive teaching and learning.”

According to the Department of Education’s website, National Blue Ribbon Schools are public and non-public elementary, middle, and high schools that are producing outstanding results for all students.

“They have demonstrated consistent excellence and made progress in closing gaps in student achievement,” added Hollings.

The National Blue Ribbon Schools recognition program is part of a larger U.S. Department of Education effort to identify and disseminate knowledge about effective school leadership and promising instructional practices.

“I am so proud of our students, staff and families as this distinction belongs to all of us for doing the best we can with and for each other every day,” added Hollings.

District officials are invited to represent Calhoun High School at a two-day awards ceremony in Washington, D.C., in November to celebrate this prestigious recognition.