West Orange Celebrates Its Beloved 'Blue Ribbon' School: Videos

WEST ORANGE, NJ — It’s a big deal to be named a “Blue Ribbon School.” Nationwide, less than 300 earned the prestigious honor in 2022, including just nine in New Jersey. And one of them is in West Orange – a fact that teachers, principals, district administrators and local parents aren’t likely to forget any time soon.

A well-deserved wave of kudos continues for the staff and students at Redwood Elementary School, which recently made the cut for the U.S. Department of Education’s latest list of National Blue Ribbon Schools. The annual effort recognizes a school's overall academic performance, or progress in closing achievement gaps among student subgroups.

The school – which goes by the motto “The school that cares” – places a special emphasis on developing “character” and prides itself on maintaining diversity and “culturally responsive practices.” Read More: West Orange School Earns Prestigious 'Blue Ribbon' For 2022

Redwood Principal Kimya Jackson made an emotional announcement to students and staff on the school lawn following the official confirmation last week. According to Jackson, the road to achieving Blue Ribbon status was one that took several years and required the help of many teachers, staff, students, parents and former principals.

Students later celebrated with a dance party as a National Blue Ribbon banner was unrolled.

On Monday, the West Orange Board of Education carved out a special segment to honor the school’s achievement, which got a standing round of applause from those in attendance.

The announcement also inspired cheers from several parents who have had children pass through the school over the years. Seen online:

• “My children began their education at Redwood, from kindergarten. Great school, wonderful teachers, now our second-grade teacher is the principal! Ms. Jackson! Proud of all the staff members that makes Redwood a wonderful place to learn. Congratulations to all of you!”
• “As parents, we already knew Redwood was a Blue Ribbon school!”
• “Agree! My son went to that school and the staff is amazing. Love it. May God continue blessing this school and staff.”

What's YOUR favorite memory of Redwood Elementary School? Let us know in the comments section!

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