Newfields Elementary School Earns National Award

Newfields Elementary School, a tiny school with only 150 students, this month was named a National Blue Ribbon School.

It was one of only three schools in the state to earn the distinction.

School District Superintendent Michael Morgan was thrilled the school won the award. He said the school's small size is beneficial for students.  

"It's like a private school education in a public school environment," Morgan said Thursday during a ceremony at the school.

State Department of Education Commissioner Virginia Barry commended the school's teachers and administrative staff and the local community for its support.

"It's quite an honor," she said.

Newfields Elementary was one of 286 schools across the country that received the award.

The school was recognized for students' exemplary performance on national and/or state tests, according to state officials.

"The school encourages academic excellence in a nurturing environment where all individuals are valued intellectually, emotionally, artistically, socially and physically and are empowered to develop to their maximum potential so that they can make contributions to the global community," according to the award.

Newfields Elementary includes students in kindergarten through 5th grade.

Hollis Primary School and Lin-Wood Public Elementary School were the two other New Hampshire schools to win the national award.