Central High School named “2024 National Blue Ribbon School”

A School District of Philadelphia High School was just named one of the 2024 National Blue Ribbon Schools in the U.S.

Central High School which has exemplary high performance, based on all student scores, student subgroup scores, and graduation rates is the only school in Philadelphia to be awarded the designation and is one of the other 13 schools in Pennsylvania to also receive the title.

In total 356 schools nationwide were awarded the title of Blue Ribbon School.

“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. As we celebrate their achievements, let us look to these schools for inspiration as we champion education as the foundation of a brighter future for every child.”

Central High School, which is a college preparatory high school challenges students with rigorous academic programs to prepare them for higher education, said the School District of Philadelphia.

The school currently has over two thousand students in grades nine through 12 and is the thirty-seventh oldest public high school in the nation, established in 1836.

“Congratulations to Central High School on its designation as a National Blue Ribbon School,” said Tony B. Watlington, Sr., Ed.D., superintendent of the School District of Philadelphia.

“I am elated to celebrate the hard work of the president (principal), teachers, students, and their families at Central. This national recognition is a point of pride and a testament to the academic excellence within our District.”

“The Blue Ribbon Award is an achievement that recognizes the continued academic excellence of the Central High School student body as well as the dedication of our faculty, staff, and families. We strive to build a community that values student voice and leadership. We wholeheartedly believe in the power of young adults to positively impact our local and global community. We are so honored to receive this award and recognition.” said, Katharine Davis, President of Central High School.

This is the third time Central High School has been awarded a Blue Ribbon School (1987 and 2011) and Central is one of 19 School District of Philadelphia schools named a National Blue Ribbon School since the Department of Education began the program and the second school to earn the distinction under Superintendent Tony B. Watlington, Sr., Ed.D. (Arts Academy at Benjamin Rush in 2022).

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