West Hartford School Earns Major Designation

WEST HARTFORD, CT — Local school officials are beaming these days as one of West Hartford's educational institutions has achieved a major honor in its charge to educate.

Webster Hill Elementary School in West Hartford, 125 Webster Hill Blvd. has been named a 2026 Connecticut Blue Ribbon School, state officials announced last week.

Gov. Ned Lamont and Connecticut Education Commissioner Charlene M. Russell-Tucker said six schools statewide received the designation, which recognizes high academic achievement, student growth and supportive learning environments.

“Congratulations to these Connecticut schools on being selected for this honor and earning this well-deserved recognition,” Lamont said in a statement.

Russell-Tucker said the award reflects collaboration among educators, students, families and communities and highlights schools “demonstrating a strong commitment to unlocking lifelong potential for all students.”

The Connecticut Blue Ribbon Schools Program was created by the state last year after the federal National Blue Ribbon Schools Program was discontinued by the U.S. Department of Education in 2025.

According to the Connecticut State Department of Education, schools were selected using 2024-25 Next Generation Accountability System results.

All selected schools were designated Schools of Distinction, with most recognized for both high academic performance and closing achievement gaps.

West Hartford Superintendent Paul Vicinus called the recognition “an incredible and prestigious honor” in a message to the community.

“This accomplishment recognizes the efforts and talents of Webster Hill scholars and the hard work and dedication of every educator, paraeducator, instructional leader, and tutor who make up the Webster Hill staff,” Vicinus said.

Vicinus noted Webster Hill previously ranked among the top 10% of Connecticut schools for academic achievement and student growth during the 2024-25 school year and also earned School of Distinction recognition the prior year for high academic growth.

He also credited Webster Hill Principal Anthony Davila, former principal and current Director of Elementary Education Melissa Behrens, staff, students, and families for the achievement.

The Connecticut State Department of Education plans to hold an awards ceremony on June 9 in West Hartford, honoring the six schools selected statewide.

For the complete announcement, including the other schools picked, click on this link.

To read Webster Hill School's CT report card, click on this link.