Nitsch Elementary made history today as the first-ever elementary school in Klein ISD to be named a 2023 National Blue Ribbon School (NBRS) by the U.S. Department of Education, joining an elite group of 353 schools across the Nation.

The National Blue Ribbon Schools Program, now in its 40th year, honors the Nation’s top schools based on academic performance on state and nationally normed assessments and academic progress in closing achievement gaps.

“Being named a National Blue Ribbon School means we are fulfilling our mission, which is at the heart of everything we do,” Nitsch Elementary Principal Frank Ward proudly stated. “It is a simple mission paired with a huge task: Every Child. Every Day. Following this simple guiding principle, we know the possibilities are limitless for our students. Through the diligent work of a staff that believes, collaborates, and moves with a sense of urgency, achieving is more than a dream. With the support of Dr. McGown and her team, it has become a reality for our kids. This is a great honor for our school community. Go, Team Nitsch!”

The National Blue Ribbons Schools program was created to “shine a spotlight on the best schools in the United States and to share best practices of outstanding schools across the country.” As part of their 40th anniversary celebration, our very own Nitsch Knights were chosen to represent Texas as one of the most successful public schools in the United States.

“I know that this prestigious national recognition is the result of the hard work and fierce dedication of our incredible teachers with the guidance and support of the school’s outstanding leadership, especially Principal Frank Ward,” Klein ISD Superintendent Dr. Jenny McGown said. “Klein ISD is incredibly proud of Nitsch Elementary for their unwavering efforts in making learning a community effort, where students, families, and teachers come together toward one goal—academic excellence for EVERY student in their collective care. Congratulations to our Nitsch Knights for proving what is possible for our kids!”

This is not the first time our Nitsch Elementary teachers have set high standards for their students and achieved them. Last year, Nitsch was recognized by the State for their academic performance and historic academic growth.

“From being one of three schools recognized at the state level last year to now being the first-ever Klein ISD elementary school recognized at the national level as a National Blue Ribbon School, the evidence of the collective achievements our Knights have made is outstanding,” Klein ISD Board President Rob Ellis said. “Thank you so much to Dr. McGown, Principal Ward, and the entire Nitsch Elementary team for always putting the success of our students at the center of all they do. Congratulations!”

Nitsch Elementary, the first Klein ISD elementary school to be named a National Blue Ribbon School, joins previously-named Klein schools Strack Intermediate School (1991), Klein Oak High School (1996), and Klein Forest High School (2002).

The National Blue Ribbon Schools Program emphasizes that their recognized schools set high standards and remain closely connected to the essence of teaching and learning. They leverage data-driven instruction, value faculty through professional learning opportunities, and engage families and communities toward shared goals.

Nitsch Elementary, along with the other National Blue Ribbon awardees, will be celebrated at an awards ceremony in Washington, D.C., this November. For more information and a detailed 2023 National Blue Ribbon Schools list, please visit https://www.nationalblueribbonschools.ed.gov/.