Darnestown Elementary School is one of ten elementary schools selected by the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) as a 2001 Maryland Blue Ribbon School of Excellence.

In order to receive this prestigious award, schools must demonstrate high achievement in the following areas: student performance as measured by assessments and other data-based areas, student focused instruction, school organization, challenging standards and curriculum, active teaching and learning, parent and community involvement, professional development opportunities, and leadership and decision making.

Maryland Blue Ribbon Schools underwent extensive evaluations including three panel reviews by twenty-five principals and key administrators of former Blue Ribbon winners, local school system testing directors and MSDE staff.

Each Maryland winner will represent the state and compete with schools from across the country in the National Blue Ribbon Schools program.

The following MCPS schools are among eight Maryland Blue Ribbon Honorable Mention Award winners:

Lucy V. Barnsley Elementary

Bradley Hills Elementary

Cedar Grove Elementary

Maryland's Blue Ribbon Schools will become part of a state network of Blue Ribbon Schools working with the Maryland State Department of Education in school improvement and policy. Winning Maryland schools receive a Maryland Blue Ribbon Flag and a $1000 cash award from the Department. Corporate sponsors also provide instructional materials and other awards.

These schools will be honored by the Maryland Legislature in January 2001. The Governor and the Maryland State Department of Education will hold an awards gala in spring 2001.

The U.S. Department of Education will review all state applications for the National Blue Ribbon Schools program in January 2001 with site visit notifications expected in February 2001.

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