The Mississippi Board of Education celebrated significant achievements in education during its recent meeting on April 18, 2024, recognizing three schools that have earned the prestigious National Blue Ribbon status for 2023. This honor, awarded by the U.S. Department of Education, highlights schools that excel in performance or have made notable strides in closing achievement gaps.

Caledonia High School, located in the Lowndes County School District, was acknowledged as an exemplary achievement gap closing school. Principal Gregory Elliott expressed pride in the school's accomplishments, emphasizing the collective effort of students, teachers, and the community. With an enrollment of 606 students and a consistent A rating for the past two years, Caledonia High School ranks as the fifteenth best high school in Mississippi. The school is also recognized as one of the state’s military schools, further enhancing its community profile.

The meeting also honored two exemplary high performing schools: Laurel Magnet School of the Arts and Lewisburg Elementary School. Laurel Magnet School, situated in the Laurel School District, serves 335 students from pre-K through sixth grade. Principal Dr. Heather Jones highlighted the school's commitment to integrating the arts into education, which has led to impressive academic results, including top rankings in English Language Arts and math proficiency.

Lewisburg Elementary School, part of the DeSoto County School District, focuses on character development alongside academic excellence. Principal Cynthia Dixon praised her dedicated staff, noting their collaborative efforts to foster a supportive learning environment. The school emphasizes positive behavior through initiatives like the "legacy coins," which reward students for making good choices.

These recognitions not only celebrate the individual schools but also reflect broader educational goals in Mississippi, aiming to enhance student performance and close achievement gaps. The Board's acknowledgment of these schools underscores the importance of community involvement and the collective effort required to achieve educational excellence. As Mississippi continues to strive for improvement in its education system, the success of these schools serves as an inspiring model for others across the state.