The U.S. Department of Education announced Sept. 28 that Belton ISD’s Leon Heights Elementary School is a 2016 National Blue Ribbon School.

Founded in 1982, the Blue Ribbon School program recognizes public and private elementary, middle, and high schools where students perform at very high levels. Only 26 schools in Texas (and just 329 nationwide) received the award this year.

“This is a much deserved recognition,” said Susan Kincannon, superintendent of Belton ISD, “Like all of our campuses, the team at Leon Heights is working every day to prepare our students to excel in tomorrow's world.”

All schools were selected as exemplary high performing schools as measured by state assessments or nationally normed tests. Each school has an economically disadvantaged population of 25 percent or greater.

The schools completed a rigorous application process through the U.S. Department of Education. Schools that receive the award are recognized at the Blue Ribbon School conference in Washington, D.C.

“I congratulate the teachers, administrators and staff members at each of these nationally recognized campuses in Texas,” said Commissioner of Education Mike Morath. “A strong commitment to successful student outcomes is evident throughout the school year at every National Blue Ribbon campus, past and present, across our state.”

For more information about the national Blue Ribbon Schools program, visit the U.S. Department of Education’s website at http://www2.ed.gov/programs/nclbbrs/index.html.