Hadley Middle School Earns Governor's Blue Ribbon Award

HOMER GLEN, IL — A Homer Glen middle school has been named one of the 2026 Governor's Blue Ribbon Schools, according to a news release from Gov. JB Pritzker's office.

Hadley Middle School, which is part of Homer Community Consolidated School District 33C, earned recognition for closing achievement gaps.

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"I want to congratulate our 2026 Governor's Blue Ribbon Schools, who demonstrate what is possible when students, educators, families, and communities come together to support our children in reaching their full potential," Pritzker said in the announcement.

Now in its second year, the state program follows the model of the federal Blue Ribbon Schools program. Illinois established its version last year after the Trump administration canceled the U.S. Department of Education's national program, according to the governor's office.

"Being named a Governor's Blue Ribbon School is a remarkable achievement and a testament to the hard work of students, educators, staff, and families," State Superintendent of Education Tony Sanders said in the release. "These schools have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to student success, whether through exceptional academic performance or meaningful progress in closing achievement gaps."

This year's honorees include 16 public schools and eight nonpublic schools representing urban, suburban and rural communities. Sixteen received high-performing recognition, while eight were honored for closing achievement gaps.