New Jersey Names 11 Blue Ribbon Schools After National Program Ends

UPDATE: New Jersey has just announced the recipients of its inaugural Blue Ribbon Schools Award, recognizing 11 schools following the cancellation of the national program by the Trump administration. This state-level initiative honors schools that were selected before the federal program ceased operations in August 2023 after 43 years.

Among the winners, nine public schools and two private schools span across various counties, including Bergen, Hudson, Atlantic, and Camden. The announcement was made during a state Board of Education meeting last week, highlighting a commitment to educational excellence despite federal changes.

The awardees include schools like Liberty High School in Jersey City and Indian Hill School in Holmdel, showcasing a diverse range of educational environments. State officials, including New Jersey’s Commissioner of Education Kevin Dehmer, emphasized the collaborative effort of educators, students, and communities in achieving academic success.

Dehmer stated, “New Jersey’s 2025 Blue Ribbon Schools demonstrate what is possible when educators, students, and communities work together to support academic growth and opportunity for all learners.” He further noted that the schools exemplify high standards and effective teaching methods, echoing the criteria of the former National Blue Ribbon Schools program.

The complete list of this year’s Blue Ribbon recipients includes:

– Audubon — Mansion Avenue School
– East Brunswick — Hatikvah International Academy Charter School
– Englewood — The Elisabeth Morrow School (private)
– Glen Ridge — Ridgewood Avenue School
– Holmdel — Indian Hill School
– Jersey City — Liberty High School
– Jersey City — Our Lady of Czestochowa School (private)
– Lodi — Roosevelt School
– Princeton — Littlebrook School
– Teterboro — Bergen County Technical High School
– Ventnor — Ventnor Elementary School

This recognition comes on the heels of New Jersey’s last participation in the National Blue Ribbon program, where 11 schools were honored in its final year. As the state steps forward, the Blue Ribbon distinction continues to represent schools that excel in closing opportunity gaps and achieving high academic standards.

The impact of this state program is profound, as it not only acknowledges individual schools but also inspires a culture of excellence across New Jersey. The community and educational stakeholders eagerly anticipate how these schools will influence educational practices statewide.

As New Jersey moves ahead with its Blue Ribbon Schools initiative, observers will be watching closely for further developments and the ongoing efforts to enhance educational outcomes for all students. The new program promises to create a legacy of achievement and collaboration that may reshape the educational landscape in the state.

This urgent announcement highlights the importance of educational recognition at a time when national standards are shifting, ensuring that New Jersey’s commitment to academic excellence remains unwavering. Share this news to celebrate the achievements of these outstanding schools!