If Jackson earns the designation, it will be Lamar CISD’s fourth Blue Ribbon school. Austin, Ray and Velasquez elementary schools are the District’s other Blue Ribbon schools. 

“It is a dream come true,” said Jackson principal Deana Gonzalez. “It is so wonderful for our staff to know that if you believe in kids, you can make a difference.”

“We are all extremely proud and excited of the students, staff and families at Jackson,” said Dr. Thomas Randle, Lamar CISD Superintendent of School. “This truly shows that a dedicated community can come together to excel.”

Founded in 1982, U.S. Department of Education Blue Ribbon Schools program recognizes public and private elementary, middle and high schools where students perform at very high levels or where exemplary progress has been made toward closing achievement gaps among sub-populations while maintaining high achievement levels among all students. 

Jackson’s nomination is based on its exemplary progress on closing the achievement gap. 

Each nominated school has an economically disadvantaged population of 39 percent or greater. Nominated schools must complete a rigorous application process through the U.S. Department of Education. Announcements of the national award winners will be made in September 2018.  Schools that receive the award are recognized at the Blue Ribbon Schools awards ceremony in Washington, D.C.