SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - Two Springfield schools have been honored by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. The Edward P. Boland Elementary School and Thomas M. Balliet Elementary School were chosen as 2024 Schools of Recognition for their significant growth and academic achievement. This prestigious designation celebrates the hard work and dedication of students, teachers, and staff at both schools. A key factor in their success has been a strong focus on meeting the needs of multilingual learners, which has resulted in notable gains in English Language Arts, math, and science. Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno expressed his pride in the school's accomplishments, saying, "This is a tremendous recognition for Edward P. Boland and Thomas M. Balliet Elementary Schools, as well as our entire Springfield Public Schools system. Superintendent Dr. Dinnall and I congratulate Principals Lisa Bakowski and Tierra Downie, along with their dedicated teams of educators, for transforming the educational experience for our students. Springfield Public Schools continues to lead with innovative programs, and for that, I thank Superintendent Dinnall and our school team." Superintendent Dr. Sonia Dinnall echoed the mayor's sentiments, noting the collective efforts required to foster student success. “We are thrilled to celebrate the accomplishments of Boland and Balliet Elementary Schools," Dr. Dinnall said. "Their recognition reflects our ongoing efforts to create learning environments where every scholar is challenged and supported to excel. When we cultivate a culture of belief in our students and staff, we can achieve remarkable results. Congratulations to the principals, staff, students, and families of Boland and Balliet schools.” Local News Headlines West Springfield police seek public’s help in identifying larceny suspect Easthampton Fire hosts blood drive amid statewide shortage AG appoints special investigator to look into state police recruit death Gov. holds bill signing to help Mass. compete for federal funds WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com.