Thomas S. Wootton High School was named today by the U.S. Department of Education as one of 172 middle and high schools nationwide and one of four in Maryland to receive the 2002 award as a National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence. Senator Paul Sarbanes, a strong supporter of the Blue Ribbon Schools program, announced the award today to Principal Rebecca Newman.

The school was selected after undergoing a rigorous review and on-site visit by the U. S. Department of Education. To receive the award, Wootton had to demonstrate high achievement in areas including student performance, instruction, parent and community involvement, and professional development.

"We are proud and very, very excited," said Dr. Newman. “The award recognizes an excellent staff, a supportive community, and a wonderful student body. Our students go above and beyond to achieve their best and make this an excellent school.”

Wootton presents students with a wide range of challenging opportunities, such as the DNA Resource Center housed at Wootton that offers high-level biotechnology courses and internships at institutions such as the National Institutes of Health. Student involvement is reflected in the school’s five-year record as having the highest percentage of students involved in extra-curricular activities among high schools in Montgomery County Public Schools.

"The faculty, students, and parents have worked hard to build the very best education at Wootton High School," said Dr. Jerry D. Weast, superintendent of schools. "I have been impressed by their commitment to excellence and certainly this award acknowledges their achievement.”

Wootton was among three high schools and six middle schools that received a state Blue Ribbon award last fall from the Maryland State Department of Education. Four of these schools have now been named National Blue Ribbon Schools.

Wootton’s Blue Ribbon award continues a strong record in Montgomery County in winning this recognition of excellence. Since the award program began in 1982, schools in Montgomery County have won the national Blue Ribbon awards 29 times. The national Blue Ribbon Schools of Excellence Program honors elementary and secondary schools in alternate years.