WESTERVILLE, Ohio (WCMH) – The Department of Education has bestowed the prestigious National Blue Ribbon School designation to this year’s select schools, and one local elementary school made the list. The 2024 cohort is made up of 356 schools, but just one – Westerville’s Whittier Elementary – is in central Ohio. Whittier was recognized in the Exemplary High Performing Schools category, which the Department said recognizes top-performing schools based on state or national assessments.  Westerville schools weigh religious release policy "We are honored that Whittier Elementary School is being recognized as a 2024 National Blue Ribbon School," Westerville Superintendent Angie Hamberg said. "This prestigious recognition highlights the tireless efforts of our students, staff and families in closing the achievement gap and preparing our students to excel in a competitive world. I am proud to see their dedication and commitment to learning recognized. Congratulations Whittier.”   According to the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce, the high-performing schools category has been where ODE has nominated schools. Nationally, schools can also be recognized in the Exemplary Achievement Gap Closing category, which honors schools that bridge gaps between students from “disadvantaged backgrounds.” The nominations come from a state’s top education official, which is ODE director Stephen Dackin for Ohio. Dackin's nominations led to 14 Ohio schools making the list, making Ohio the seventh most-awarded state behind California (33), Texas (31), New York (21), Illinois (18), Indiana (16) and Florida (15). According to Whittier’s Blue Ribbon biography, the school works from three principles: student growth, excellence and community. In its 15-page application, Whittier highlighted school programs designed to support students socially and emotionally.  How central Ohio school districts are investing in technology to address safety concerns The elementary school encourages students to SOAR (safe, own it, always kind, respectful), and when enough students receive recognition for their work toward the common goal, the entire school enjoys an incentive. Examples from Whittier included school-wide quick dance parties or a photo booth during lunch.  As part of the designation, Whittier will receive a National Blue Ribbon School award flag to display in its entryway or on a flagpole.