Hilliard, Bassett Elementary Nominated As Blue Ribbon Schools

and elementary schools are standing out among Ohio's primary schools. The state has nominated the two schools for the 2012 National Blue Ribbon Schools award, along with only a dozen others.

Both schools were among the highest-performing schools on state assessments, , and earned a Performance Index Score of over 110.

The school principals were thrilled with the news, and credited their predecessors for laying the ground work that made the schools so successful.

“The staff at Bassett is humbled by this recognition,” said Bassett Principal Ben Hodge. “Former Principal Tim Rickard created a learning community that achieves excellence, and I want to continue that for all children here at Bassett. We have hard working students, parents and staff, and I believe this nomination recognizes their efforts.”

The U.S. Department of Education awards the Blue Ribbon honors each year to both public and private schools where students are either performing at high levels, or where there has been significant improvement. 

Hilliard Principal Kim Conley also said her staff was honored by the nomination, but it the school's success was a joint effort by the whole community.

“Through the solid foundation which former Principal Mary Flanagan established, I’ve been privileged to carry on this journey with a remarkable and dedicated staff, talented students, and supportive parents and community,” she said.

Both schools will submit formal applications for the award, which is announced in September. And the work doesn't stop there— the schools still must meet yearly progress requirements.

“It’s a great honor that two of the 14 Ohio schools nominated for such a prestigious award come from the Westlake City Schools,” said Westlake City Schools Superintendent Dan Keenan. “The Blue Ribbon nominations are a testament to the work and commitment of the teachers, principals, support staff, PTA and all who spend so much time seeing Bassett and Hilliard strive for excellence.”