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Deep Run High School earned National Blue Ribbon School status Monday, as announced by the U.S. Department of Education. It was the only school in the Richmond region and one of only eight in Virginia to earn the honor.
The National Blue Ribbon Schools Program has recognized more than 8,800 schools during its 36 years in existence. Program officials select schools in two separate categories – those rated "exemplary high-performing schools" and those rated "exemplary achievement gap-closing schools" as determined by their student test scores and subgroup student test scores on state assessments, as well as their graduation rates.
Deep Run and the other 348 schools recognized nationally will be honored Nov. 7-8 during an awards ceremony in Washington, D.C.
Schools are nominated by the top education official in their state.
Deep Run officials attributed part of the school's success to a "passage-based" reading program it implemented in 2012 as a way to raise standardized test scores among its students, who had performed below level when compared with similar schools.
The program helped students develop and hone critical thinking and reading comprehension skills and closed academic gaps that had existed between African American students and white students at the school.
“It’s a tremendous honor that wouldn’t be possible without the efforts of our students, their families, our teachers, staff and the entire Wildcat community,” said Deep Run Principal Lenny Pritchard. “Amazing things can happen when communities come together to do what’s best for students, and Deep Run is very grateful to be recognized on the national stage.”
The last Henrico school to earn the honor was Twin Hickory Elementary in 2014. Fourteen other Henrico schools also have been named Blue Ribbon schools previously:
• Nuckols Farm Elementary School: 2012
• Shady Grove Elementary School: 2007
• Pocahontas Middle School: 2006
• Short Pump Elementary School: 2003
• Quioccasin (Byrd) Middle School: 1999-2000
• Adams Elementary School: 1998-99
• Baker Elementary School: 1996-97
• Tuckahoe Middle School: 1994-96
• Douglas S. Freeman High School: 1992-93
• Mills Godwin High School: 1988-89
• Longan Elementary School: 1985-86
• Brookland Middle School: 1984-85
• Hermitage High School: 1983-84
