John Rex is a 2020 recipient of the National Blue Ribbon Schools award

John Rex Charter School is a 2020 recipient of the National Blue Ribbon Schools award.

Today, 367 schools were recognized as National Blue Ribbon Schools for 2020. The recognition is based on a school’s overall academic performance or progress in closing achievement gaps among student subgroups.

“This is a huge honor for John Rex Charter School,” said Dean Ketchum, head of school. “I’d like to give a big congratulations to our dedicated leadership team and talented teachers. The award is a major accomplishment and represents the amazing educational opportunities we provide our Rockets.”

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.

The Education Department recognized John Rex Charter School as an Exemplary Achievement Gap Closing School, which means the school is among the state’s highest performing in closing achievement gaps between a school’s student groups and all students. This distinction was based on reviewing all student scores, student subgroup scores and graduation rates.

“Congratulations to this year’s National Blue Ribbon School awardees,” said U.S. Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos. “It’s a privilege to recognize the extraordinary work you do to meet students’ needs and prepare them for successful careers and meaningful lives.”

Up to 420 schools may be nominated each year. The U.S. Education Department invites National Blue Ribbon School nominations from the top education official in all states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, the Department of Defense Education Activity, and the Bureau of Indian Education. Private schools are nominated by the Council for American Private Education (CAPE).

The 2020 National Blue Ribbon Schools Awards Ceremony will be held virtually Nov. 12 and 13.