Orange County Public Schools is proud to announce that Avalon Middle School has earned recognition from the U.S. Department of Education as a 2021 National Blue Ribbon School. This award, one of only 325 given nationally this year, is based on Avalon Middle's progress in closing achievement gaps among student subgroups.
"I am so proud of the faculty and staff of Avalon Middle," stated OCPS Superintendent Barbara Jenkins. "Closing achievement gaps is essential to leading every student to success, and the middle school years are crucial. Avalon's practices of offering double-block language arts and math and push-in supports, as well as their ICU (Instructional Care Unit) program for students who are struggling academically, are great examples of ways to narrow gaps."
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. Now in its 39th year, the National Blue Ribbon Schools Program has bestowed approximately 10,000 awards to more than 9,000 schools.
“This year’s cohort of honorees demonstrates what is possible when committed educators and school leaders create vibrant, welcoming, and affirming school cultures where rich teaching and learning can flourish,” said U.S. Secretary of Education, Miguel Cardona. “I commend this school and all our Blue Ribbon honorees for working to keep students healthy and safe while meeting their academic, social, emotional, and mental health needs. In the face of unprecedented circumstances, you found creative ways to engage, care for, protect, and teach our children."
The U.S. Department of Education recognizes all schools in one of two performance categories; Avalon Middle earned the award as an Exemplary Achievement Gap-Closing School, being among Florida’s highest performing schools in closing achievement gaps between a school’s student groups and all students.
Secretary Cardona will honor all of the 2021 National Blue Ribbon Schools at an award ceremony in Maryland in early November.
Video download available - contact our offices: [email protected] for link
Includes school celebration and interviews with:
Dr. Barbara Jenkins - OCPS Superintendent
Karen Furno - Principal, Avalon Middle School
John Wright - Associate Superintendent, Innovation Office
Johanna Lopez - District 2 School Board Member