Hickory Creek Named Blue Ribbon School

U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona announced today that Hickory Creek Middle School has been named a 2024 National Blue Ribbon School.

The U.S. Department of Education identified the
middle school as an exemplary high-performing school in Illinois, as measured by Illinois state assessments. Hickory Creek Middle School is one of 356 schools nationwide, and one of just 18 schools in Illinois to receive the National Blue Ribbon honor in 2024. This marks the second time the school has
earned this distinction in the past decade, last achieving this award in 2018.

“The National Blue Ribbon Schools Award is a testament to the exceptional achievements of students and educators at each of these schools,” said U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona in a press release today. “The 2024 National Blue Ribbon Schools are raising the bar for our nation’s students, serving as models for effective teaching and intentional collaboration in their schools and communities.

As we celebrate their achievements, let us look to these schools for inspiration as we champion education as the foundation of a brighter future for every child.”

The esteemed National Blue Ribbon School award, established in 1982, celebrates the collective efforts of educators, families, and communities in building supportive, secure schools where students thrive and succeed in mastering challenging, enriching content.

"Today, Frankfort School District 157-C humbly celebrates a remarkable achievement that reflects the dedication, passion, and hard work of every student, teacher, and staff member at Hickory Creek Middle School and in our school community. Being named a National Blue Ribbon School by the U.S.
Department of Education affirms our commitment to continuous academic growth, and the belief that all our students deserve the absolute best from our school district. Our school community has set the standard for what can be achieved when we work together with a shared vision for success,” Superintendent Dr. Doug Wernet said of Hickory Creek Middle School being nationally recognized by the
U.S. Department of Education.
“I am proud of the achievements that our staff and students make daily. We are surrounded by a
supportive community and families. The culture of Hickory Creek is one of continuous growth and this recognition affirms that setting ambitious goals and being committed to working towards them, makes
achievement possible,” said Hickory Creek Principal Tricia Dotson.

Edith Lutz, President of the Frankfort School District 157-C Board of Education, celebrated the achievement. “The Board of Education is proud of Hickory Creek being named a National Blue Ribbon School. This award was achieved by high academic standards and the help of all FSD 157-C staff, students, families, and community members. The Board is looking forward to continuing our work in
supporting the district and community,” Lutz said.
Hickory Creek Middle School students and staff will take part in a celebration in the coming weeks and the school’s staff will be recognized at the November Board of Education meeting. In addition, representatives from Frankfort School District 157-C and Hickory Creek Middle School will travel to Washington D.C. to accept the National Blue Ribbon School award from the U.S. Department of Education on November 7 and 8.

Congratulations to Hickory Creek Middle School and Frankfort School District 157-C!