YORK COUNTY — The Virginia Board of Education has officially recognized Seaford Elementary School as one of seven Virginia schools to meet the criteria to become a 2025 National Blue Ribbon School.
In late August, the U.S. Department of Education abruptly ended the National Blue Ribbon program established by President Reagan in 1982. According to the York County School Division, at the time of the cancellation, Seaford Elementary had completed the requirements and was awaiting the official declaration naming SES an Exemplary High Performing School.
To qualify as an Exemplary High Performing School, a school must be among the state’s highest performing schools as measured by state assessments or nationally normed tests, according to the division. Schools must also demonstrate a record of equitable outcomes for all students.
“Seaford Elementary is an outstanding representation of York County’s commitment to ensuring every student is supported, valued and challenged through engaging learning experiences, said Jim Carroll, YCSD interim superintendent. “We appreciate the Board of Education’s Resolution of Recognition celebrating these achievements and hope to see Virginia follow other states by developing an official Virginia Blue Ribbon program.”