Three New Hampshire schools receive National Blue Ribbon status

CONCORD, NH — The New Hampshire Department of Education is pleased to announce that three New Hampshire schools have been awarded as 2023 National Blue Ribbon Schools. Riddle Brook School in Bedford, Mary C. Dondero Elementary School in Portsmouth and Rye Elementary School in Rye were named to this esteemed list of schools being honored for their exemplary teaching and learning. 

“I am very proud of the students, educators and administrators of these three schools for exceling throughout the past year and beyond. These schools should be celebrated for their efforts in helping students reach high levels of achievement, while also creating unique opportunities for learning,” said Frank Edelblut, education commissioner. 

Riddle Brook School, Mary C. Dondero Elementary School and Rye Elementary School are among a group of 353 schools throughout the country to be recognized as National Blue Ribbon Schools. 

“The honorees for our 2023 National Blue Ribbon Schools Award have set a national example for what it means to Raise the Bar in education. The leaders, educators and staff at our National Blue Ribbon Schools continually inspire me with their dedication to fostering academic excellence and building positive school cultures that support students of all backgrounds to thrive academically, socially and emotionally,” U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona said in a statement. 

This year represents the 40th anniversary of the National Blue Ribbon Schools Program, which recognizes exemplary achievement in education by honoring high-performing schools and schools that have closed substantial achievement gaps. 

• “Rye Elementary School is a great example of a school with a positive culture, great community support and a strong focus on student learning. The staff at RES is committed to continuous improvement through strong collaboration in service to students,” said Superintendent Stephen Zadravec, SAU 50.
• “Riddle Brook’s unwavering commitment to student learning and fostering a positive culture creates an optimal educational experience for the children of Bedford. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Bedford community, our dedicated students and their families, and the exceptional staff and strong leadership under Principal Molly McCarthy. Bedford takes immense pride in its schools, and Riddle Brook serves as a shining example of excellence among them,” said Superintendent Michael Fournier, SAU 25. 
• “This award is a great testament to the collaborative work that is being done by staff, students and the community. This work is being skillfully led by an engaged principal who lives in the community and cares deeply about the students as a whole. The people of Portsmouth should rejoice in knowing the strengths of their public schools,” said Superintendent Zach McLaughlin, SAU 52.