Sharp Elementary In Cherry Hill Named National Blue Ribbon School

CHERRY HILL, NJ — Joseph D. Sharp Elementary School in Cherry Hill is one of nine schools in New Jersey that were recognized with a big national honor that pays tribute to academic excellence and outstanding achievement.

It was designated as a "Blue Ribbon school," an honor that affirms the work of creating safe and welcoming schools where students "master challenging and engaging content," by the U.S. Department of Education.

A total of 362 schools nationally earned the award that recognizes the highest performing schools in the state or those that are among the highest performing in closing the achievement gap.

"We recognize and honor your important work in preparing students for successful careers and meaningful lives," Education Secretary Betsy DeVos said in a video message to honorees. "As a National Blue Ribbon School, your school demonstrates what is possible when committed educators hold all students and staff to high standards and create vibrant, innovative cultures of teaching and learning."

“We are thrilled to be recognized as a National Blue Ribbon School,” Sharp Elementary School Principal Mr. Ric Miscioscia said. “This speaks to the tremendous talent and commitment of our staff, the enthusiasm of our students, and the support from our Sharp families.”

The National Blue Ribbon Schools Program, created in 1982, also recognizes outstanding public and non-public school achievement for overall academic excellence and/or progress in closing achievement gaps among student subgroups.

Sharp Elementary School was recognized as an Exemplary High Performing School. On Nov. 14 and Nov. 15, DeVos and the U.S. Department of Education will celebrate with 312 public and 50 non-public school honorees at an awards ceremony in the Washington, D.C. area.

See related: Big National Honor For 9 NJ Schools