The Blue Ribbon Schools program was begun in 1982 and recognizes secondary schools one year, elementary schools the next. Each school is nominated by a state education agency and undergoes a series of reviews and inspection visits by evaluation teams from the U.S. Department of Education before national awards are announced. Four hundred fifty-three schools were nominated this year for Blue Ribbon Schools awards. Blue Ribbon Schools can serve as examples of what is possible under the president's plan to create a system of education that gives every child access to a quality education. Selection of Blue Ribbon Schools is based on an evaluation of written materials provided by the nominated schools and the reports of experienced principals and administrators who conducted site visits to the schools.
Reviewers make recommendations to the secretary of education for final selection.