UPDATE: New Jersey just announced the recipients of its inaugural Blue Ribbon Schools Award, honoring 11 schools across the state. This recognition comes in the wake of the Trump administration’s abrupt cancellation of the national program, which had celebrated academic excellence for 43 years.
The New Jersey Department of Education confirmed that the new state program will recognize nine public and two private schools, effectively replacing the former National Blue Ribbon Schools program. These schools were selected prior to the cancellation on August 2023, ensuring that their achievements are still celebrated.
The awardees include three schools from Bergen County and two from Jersey City, with others located in Atlantic, Camden, Essex, Mercer, Middlesex, and Monmouth counties. The honored schools for 2025 are:
– Audubon — Mansion Avenue School
– East Brunswick — Hatikvah International Academy Charter School
– Englewood — The Elisabeth Morrow School (private)
– Glen Ridge — Ridgewood Avenue School
– Holmdel — Indian Hill School
– Jersey City — Liberty High School
– Jersey City — Our Lady of Czestochowa School (private)
– Lodi — Roosevelt School
– Princeton — Littlebrook School
– Teterboro — Bergen County Technical High School
– Ventnor — Ventnor Elementary School
The announcement was made during a state Board of Education meeting last week. Kevin Dehmer, New Jersey’s education commissioner, emphasized the importance of collaboration among educators, students, and communities in achieving academic success.
“New Jersey’s 2025 Blue Ribbon Schools demonstrate what is possible when educators, students, and communities work together to support academic growth and opportunity for all learners,” Dehmer stated.
The state’s selection process closely mirrors the criteria used by the former national program, focusing on administrative leadership, high academic standards, and effective teaching methods. “The Blue Ribbon distinction honors schools that stand out — whether through consistently high achievement or by making remarkable strides in closing opportunity gaps,” Dehmer added.
In 2024, New Jersey had 11 schools recognized as National Blue Ribbon Schools, an increase from nine in 2023. The shift to a state-level recognition program signifies a new chapter in celebrating educational excellence in New Jersey.
As this story develops, educators and communities will be closely watching how these awards impact school funding and resources. The Blue Ribbon Schools Award not only highlights academic achievement but also aims to inspire other institutions to strive for excellence.
For those interested in educational advancements and community achievements, the recognition of these schools serves as a beacon of hope and a testament to the dedication of teachers and students alike. Stay tuned for more updates on New Jersey’s educational initiatives and the ongoing impact of these awards.