In seeking successful schools, the program welcomes both schools that have demonstrated sustained success in achieving these values and schools that have demonstrated significant improvement by overcoming serious obstacles. Blue Ribbon Schools offer instructional programs that meet the highest academic standards, have supportive and learning-centered school environments, and demonstrate student outcome results that are significantly above average or have improved over time. The conceptual basis for the program criteria is based on current research, state and national education reform goals, and the expert opinions of practitioners nationwide. Once a school's eligibility to participate has been determined, information provided by a school in response to the program criteria will guide the National Review Panel's analysis regarding the school's possible designation as a Blue Ribbon School. The self-assessment is an opportunity to involve all relevant stakeholders in a common school improvement project.
Recognition is a powerful energizer for recognized schools to make further improvements.
By publicly validating school improvement efforts, confidence in recognized schools increases. This often results in higher community interest in and support for schools, greater parent and community involvement in education, and success in the search for outside funds and other resources. The public spotlight shines on recognized schools. Often they are the subject of articles in national, state, and local publications. They are designated as the universe from which schools, teachers, or students are selected for special awards from business and industry.