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GRUNDY CENTER - Grundy Center Middle School recently received designation as a National Blue Ribbon School from the U.S. Department of Education.
The school was one of five in Iowa receiving the award for 2023, along with three elementary schools and a high school.
"We are honored that our middle school has been chosen," said Grundy Center Secondary Principal Michael Vokes. "This achievement will serve as a lasting reminder of the collaboration, teamwork and dedication, K through 12, that led to this recognition."
The Blue Ribbon Schools Program recognized public and private schools based on their overall academic excellence.
In the case of Grundy Center Middle School, the students placed in the top 15 percent in language arts and mathematics according to state assessments, which helped in the nomination process.
The Department of Education reviews schools based on these achievements, and progress that schools make toward closing achievement gaps between groups of students.
"We place a strong emphasis on a crucial aspect: understanding our students," Vokes said. "Our school isn't flawless, but we take pride in the genuine connections we establish with our students. ... This support empowers us to truly understand our students – their strengths, their challenges, and the best ways to help them achieve their goals."
Other Blue Ribbon School winners in Iowa were St. Ansgar High School, East Elementary School in Sheldon, Norman Borlaug Elementary in Iowa City, and Perry Elementary.
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Contact Jake Ryder at 641-753-6611 ext. 227 or jryder@timesrepublican.com.