Campus School Wins Designation as Exemplary High Performing Blue Ribbon School
October 2, 2019 - For the first time, Campus School at the University of Memphis has been designated an Exemplary High Performing National Blue Ribbon School. The designation is one of the highest honors from the U.S. Department of Education, awarded to just 362 schools nationwide.
Campus School and one other Memphis school, Maxine Smith STEAM Academy, were among six in Tennessee to earn Blue Ribbon designation. Campus School is the only elementary school in West Tennessee to receive the honor.
To be considered for Blue Ribbon status, the state department of education must first nominate a school. The school must then meet specific qualifications set by the U.S Department of Education. They are then awarded based on their academic excellence or progress in closing student achievement gaps.
Campus School, which is operated by the UofM, is recognized for its high test scores and consistently tops district ratings. This spring, 74% of students scored proficient in reading and writing, compared with 21% of students in the district overall and 34% statewide.
“This is a tremendous testament to the hard work and persistence happening each day at Campus School,” said Sally Parish, associate vice president for Educational Initiatives. “Our faculty, staff, students, parents, campus and district partners all contribute to the success of this school and we are thrilled to celebrate their accomplishments.
“As a laboratory school, Campus School is uniquely situated to expose its students to dynamic and engaging instruction through research-based practices and campus and community partnerships. We are proud of the results these partnerships are producing and look forward to the school’s continued success.”
Campus School received state honors as a Reward School (top 5%) from 2011-15 and in 2018.
“As a University-sponsored Shelby County School, we are excited about the opportunity to share this partnership nationally so that other schools around the country may consider ways to implement this model in their communities,” Parish said. “This partnership is one of the unique strengths of Campus School, and we appreciate the support that we have at the University and district levels.”
“Campus School has a rich history that is dedicated to teaching and learning, and built on a philosophy committed to the improvement of education,” said Dr. Rebecca Scott, school director. “Campus School’s design is intentional as we strive to meet the unique learning needs of our students through the use of research-based practices, a student-centered curriculum and a focus on academic excellence and character development.
“We are pleased to partner with the University of Memphis and Shelby County Schools in providing innovative best practices for teaching and learning.”