Massachusetts Honors 63 Schools for Academic Excellence

Massachusetts education leaders gathered at the State House Tuesday to celebrate something that deserves far more attention: schools that are absolutely nailing it.

Sixty-three schools across the Commonwealth earned recognition for exceptional academic achievement, student growth, and creating environments where kids genuinely thrive. The honorees included 55 Schools of Recognition, six National Blue Ribbon School nominees, and two National Elementary and Secondary Education Act Distinguished Schools.

Governor Maura Healey praised the collective effort behind each campus's success. "It's important to recognize the good work happening in Massachusetts schools," she said, encouraging entire school communities to take pride in the honor.

The recognized schools span every educational setting imaginable. Elementary schools in small towns like Whately stand alongside Boston Latin School and urban charter schools. Rural Lanesborough Elementary earned distinction right alongside established institutions in Newton and Lexington.

Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll emphasized what sets these schools apart goes beyond test scores. "Successful schools build a sense of belonging for students, families and staff and make it possible for students to do their best," she explained.

Education Secretary Dr. Patrick Tutwiler highlighted the teamwork required to reach this level. "They reflect what's possible when our educators, students, families, and communities work together with high expectations and a shared commitment to success," he said.

The Ripple Effect

Recognition like this creates momentum that extends far beyond individual campuses. When schools share what's working, neighboring districts can adopt successful strategies. Teachers gain validation that their innovative approaches matter.

Students in recognized schools see their hard work acknowledged publicly. Families feel confident their communities prioritize education. Other schools gain roadmaps for improvement based on real results, not theory.

The Schools of Recognition program intentionally highlights effective practices to encourage continued improvement statewide. By celebrating what works, Massachusetts creates a culture where educational excellence becomes the expectation, not the exception.

These 63 schools prove that when communities invest in education and everyone pulls together, remarkable things happen for kids.