Oakwood Elementary has been named a 2024 National Blue Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education. It is one of only 356 schools nationwide and seven in Minnesota to receive this prestigious recognition.
The school was recognized in two categories: Exemplary High-Performing Schools and Exemplary Achievement Gap Closing Schools. The award reflects Oakwood’s overall academic excellence and its success in closing achievement gaps among student groups on assessments.
“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. “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.”
This marks the second time Oakwood has received the honor, with its first recognition coming in 2017. Wayzata Public Schools now boasts 12 schools that have earned the Blue Ribbon designation.
Sarabeth deNeui, Oakwood’s principal, will accept the award in a ceremony in Washington, D.C., this November.
The Blue Ribbon Schools program affirms the hard work of students, educators, families, and communities in striving for academic excellence and closing achievement gaps.
