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A+ Achievement for 6 Md. Blue Ribbon Schools

BALTIMORE (WJZ)-- An A+ achievement for six outstanding Maryland public schools honored as Blue Ribbon schools.

Devin Bartolotta visited a Howard County school receiving the honor for the first time.

The students at Manor Woods Elementary might not totally understand what this honor is all about but for staff and teachers, it reaffirms what they already knew about their school.

Teachers have worked out the perfect equation for an outstanding classroom at the Ellicott City school, joining five other elementary schools in the state as a Blue Ribbon school.

"I know we're a great school but it's just nice to be recognized for that. Especially as one of six schools in the whole state. That's pretty impressive," said gifted and talented resource teacher Kimberly Broadhurst.

Other Blue Ribbon schools on the list this year are Shipley's Choice, Sunderland, Centerville, Farmland, and Ronald McNair.

When asked if he knew what being a Blue Ribbon school is, 5th grade student, Jack Schneider said "I honestly, really don't know."

It means Manor Woods has met rigorous standards for excellence and climbed into the top 15 percent of test scores statewide, closing the achievement gap, and encouraging a positive attitude.

"I like school a lot, it's just very fun. Most people say when they wake up they're like 'uh, why, why do we have to go to school,'" said 5th grade student Archisha Saxena.

The school focuses on recognizing good things students do with a special Mighty Duck mantra.

"We choose three behaviors that we want our students to exemplify. And we've chosen to be ready, to be responsible, and to be respectful," said Julia Bialeski assistant principal at Manor Woods.

It all adds up to education's highest school-wide honor and a brighter future for Maryland's next generation.

All six Maryland schools will get a Blue Ribbon flag, a monetary prize, and even more to celebrate.

Maryland's Blue Ribbon schools are automatically invited to apply for the National Blue Ribbon School award.

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