CARSON CITY Nev. – The U.S. Department of Education today recognized three Clark County School District (CCSD) schools as National Blue Ribbon Schools. Including this year’s awardees, 23 Nevada schools that have been recognized through the National Blue Ribbon program since 2013.

Judith D. Steele Elementary was recognized in the “Exemplary Achievement Gap Closing Schools” category, and Veterans Tribute Career and Technical Academy (CTA) and West Career and Technical Academy have been recognized in the "Exemplary High Performing Schools” category. The coveted National Blue Ribbon Schools award affirms the hard work of educators, families, and communities in creating safe and welcoming schools, where students master challenging and engaging content.

“Congratulations to the school leaders, educators, staff, students, and families who have collectively earned this recognition of excellence,” said Jhone Ebert, Superintendent of Public Instruction. “The Blue Ribbon Schools program sets a high benchmark and we are proud to have three Nevada schools among the nation’s very best.”

The Nevada Department of Education nominated the schools for consideration of this esteemed recognition earlier this year. Representatives from these schools are invited to attend the 2020 National Blue Ribbon Schools Virtual Awards Ceremony on November 12 and 13.

"It is a tremendous honor for all three of these schools to be selected as National Blue Ribbon Schools," said Dr. Jesus F. Jara, Clark County School District Superintendent. "Judith Steele Elementary, as well as Veterans Tribute and West Career and Technical Academies, are examples of the pockets of excellence we are growing throughout CCSD. This is a true testament to the hard work of our teachers, support professionals, administrators and students. I look forward to seeing more schools join the list in years to come."

For more information, visit: https://nationalblueribbonschools.ed.gov/.

Judith D. Steele Elementary: The mission of this school is to develop a high-quality diverse instructional program with a focus on accountability and excellence in learning, through a safe, supportive environment that is accessible to all students. The school’s namesake served the local (Clark County), national and international educational and business communities for three decades serving as a classroom teacher, master teacher, Coordinator and Director of Special Education and Gifted and Talented Programs, University instructor, Executive Consultant, public education advocate and board member and advisor.

Veterans Tribute Career and Technical Academy: Veterans Tribute Career and Technical Academy was introduced to the public with the distinction of being the only school of its kind in Nevada to focus on preparing students for careers in Public Service. Opening in 2009, the school partners with the various public agencies in the Las Vegas area to prepare students for college and careers in public service to include public safety, criminal justice, emergency response and more.

West Career and Technical Academy: The mission of the school is to ensure students are future-ready by providing a college preparatory education that uses project-based learning, real-world applications, and innovative technology striving for six essential learning outcomes. Those learning outcomes are: Content Literacy, Communication, Critical Thinking, Collaboration, Technological Proficiency, as well as Leadership and Responsibility.