Thermopolis Middle School one of 3 Wyoming schools named 2024 National Blue Ribbon Schools by US Department of Education

The U.S. Department of Education Monday recognized 356 schools as the 2024 cohort of the National Blue Ribbon Schools, including three schools in Wyoming. This prestigious recognition highlights schools that excel in academic performance or make significant strides in closing achievement gaps among different student groups. 

The Wyoming schools named as National Blue Ribbon Schools were: Parkside Elementary School, Park County School District # 1, Powell; Sagebrush Elementary School, Sheridan County School District #2; Thermopolis Middle School, Hot Springs County School District #1.

"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." 

The 2024 National Blue Ribbon Schools reflect the full diversity of American education and serve students from all backgrounds. Per the stats from the National Blue Ribbon School Program, Thermopolis Middle School had 184 students in 2023 with 84% white, 5% American or Alaska Native, 5% Hispanic or Latino, 3% Black or African American and 1% Asian.

While awardees represent a wide array of schools, they share common traits. National Blue Ribbon Schools are led by leaders who articulate a clear vision of instructional excellence and uphold high standards. They showcase effective teaching methods and offer robust professional development for their staff. Data-driven instruction is a hallmark, and there is a concerted effort to ensure every student succeeds. Collaboration among families, communities, and educators is a key component of their success. 

Per the Blue Ribbon stats, TMS had a student turnover rate of 5%; 78 students qualify for free or reduced priced meals; 24 received special education services including 14 with specific learning disability; average student-classroom teacher ratio was 15:1; daily school attendance was in the mid 90 percentile the past five years.

A National Blue Ribbon School award flag displayed in a school's entryway or on a flagpole is a widely recognized emblem of exceptional teaching and learning. These schools serve as models of effective and innovative practices for educators across the nation. 

The Department recognizes all schools based on student performance data including assessment results, student subgroup performance and graduation rates. Schools are recognized in both or either of two performance categories: 

• Exemplary High Performing Schools: These schools are among the top performers in their state as measured by state assessments or nationally normed tests. 

• Exemplary Achievement Gap Closing Schools: These schools excel in narrowing achievement gaps between different student groups and the overall student body.  

Each nominated school submits a comprehensive application detailing its school culture, programs, assessments, instructional practices, professional development, leadership, family, and community involvement.  

Up to 420 schools may be nominated each year. The Department invites nominations for the National Blue Ribbon Schools award from the top education official in all states, the District of Columbia, U.S. territories, the Department of Defense Education Activity, and the Bureau of Indian Education. Private schools are nominated by the Council for American Private Education.  

TMS

Per the nomination form, TMS mission "is to inspire students and staff to be the top performing middle school in the State of Wyoming. We believe in learning as our fundamental purpose, collaborating for continuous improvement, focusing on results, partnering with parents and community and preparing all students for their future."

According to the nomination, "Creating a culture where all students learn at high levels has transformed TMS. TMS teachers meet regularly to "learn together" in continuous cycles of collective inquiry. An example of collective inquiry in the early years of our work (2014-2015) to improve student learning included reading a 2006 ACT College and Workforce Readiness Study, which concluded the math and reading skills needed to be an electrician/carpenter/plumber are the same needed to be a successful first year college student. This whitepaper published by ACT was a turning point.

"Each student is a member of a TMS "family" made up of approximately ten 5th - 8th graders, with an adult staff member as leader. These families stay together and students are in their same family all four years of middle school. TMS families are designed to create a positive connection where students feel belonging during the challenging middle school years. At TMS we look at all students through the lens of growth, equity and achievement. A purposeful culture has been created to ensure all students demonstrate measurable academic growth every school year."

This is the first time TMS has been named a Blue Ribbon School.