2011 National Blue Ribbon School Award...

The 2011 National Blue Ribbon Schools ceremonial events were held on Monday, November 14 and Tuesday, November 15 at the Omni Shoreham Hotel in Washington, D.C.  Presentations included speeches by Arne Duncan, U.S. Secretary of Education; Michelle Shearer, 2011 National Teacher of the Year; two panel discussions featuring successful principals from all educational levels; and Steve Robinson, special assistant in the area of domestic policy. Although President Obama was not able to attend, he sent his congratulations stating, "Schools like yours, demonstrate that with effort and dedication, classrooms can be safe challenging places that encourage the complex understanding and creative thinking needed in the competitive global economy."

Mrs. Ernsting and Mrs. Gaines had the privilege of representing Kirbyville Elementary at the official National Blue Ribbon School events and ceremonies last Monday and Tuesday. They participated in roundtable discussions about family and community standards and measuring student achievement with teachers and principals from other National Blue Ribbon Schools from other states.  It was a great opportunity to learn from other successful schools and share our successes as well. Mrs. Ernsting and Mrs. Gaines accepted a plaque and flag from Aba Kumi, director of the National Blue Ribbon Schools Program,  commemorating the accomplishment during a high-energy celebration.

Mrs. Dalager, Mrs. Ernsting, Mrs. Gaines, Mrs. Gilliam, and Ms. Horr spent the weekend prior to the event touring our nation’s capitol. U.S. Representative Billy Long’s office arranged for a tour of the White House for the group. Other destinations include a tour of the U.S. Capitol, all of the monuments, Arlington National Cemetery, the National Cathedral, and the Smithsonian Museums.  The educators took many photos of the historical destinations and look forward to sharing them with the entire school community.

Mrs. Gaines commented, "Words cannot express the pride and joy that we have regarding the national recognition and the accomplishment. However, the more important aspect of the award is that it represents the growth and success of our students and the opportunity we have had to make a positive impact in the young lives at Kirbyville."

Please enjoy the following slideshow with scenes from the awards ceremony events and also Washington, D.C. historical landmarks.

A free digital slideshow by Smilebox