Three Dallas ISD schools are among only 26 in Texas nominated for 2016 National Blue Ribbon awards. The School of Health Professions at Yvonne A. Ewell Townview Center and both the International Academy and Montessori Vanguard at George Bannerman Dealey are finalists.
Schools nominated were selected as exemplary high-performing schools based on student performance on state or national assessments. Each school has an economically disadvantaged population that is at least 20 percent. The nominees will undergo a rigorous application process to determine award winners, which will be announced in September.
Beverly Lusk, principal of Dealey Montessori and International Academy, said staff is thrilled that both of their schools have been nominated for the Blue Ribbon award.
“Here at Dealey we have high standards for learning and this nomination is a testament to all the hard work and dedication from our staff, students, and parents,” Lusk said. “We have two very unique programs with Montessori education in our elementary school and an International Focus in the middle school. Even though our programs differ from school to school, staff members are committed to a common goal of providing a high-quality education to each and every student. It would be such an honor to receive this recognition. It’s a very exciting time for Dealey.”
Meanwhile, Lasandra Sanders, principal of the School of Health Professions at Yvonne A. Ewell Townview Center, said the nomination shines a light on the great collaborative work that goes into making the school successful.
“It is truly an honor for the School of Health Professions to be recognized for our academic accomplishments that we realize is only a manifestation of the hard work, dedication, and teamwork that all stakeholders exhibit in fulfilling our vision: ‘Preparing the students we teach today to become our healthcare providers tomorrow,'” Sanders said. “This accomplishment is possible only through the hard work of our staff and students along with the support of our parents, school board member, advisory board members and community partners such as El Centro Community College, Scottish Rite Hospital, Children’s Medical Center, Methodist Dallas Hospital, UT Southwestern, Parkland Health & Hospital System, Dallas County Medical Society and the Baylor College of Dentistry, to name a few.”
Two Dallas ISD schools won the honor last year: Harry Stone Montessori Academy and Trinidad “Trini” Garza Early College High School. Dealey won the award previously in 2009.
The U.S. Department of Education has recognized public and private high-performing schools with Blue Ribbon awards since 1982.
