Avalon Middle named 2021 National Blue Ribbon School

ORLANDO, Fla. — Avalon Middle School in Orlando has been recognized by the U.S. Department of Education as a 2021 National Blue Ribbon School.

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The award is only given to 325 schools across the country annually. Avalon Middle is one of just seven Florida schools to receive the honor in 2021.

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The National Blue Ribbon Schools program recognizes outstanding public and non-public schools for overall excellence, turn-around stories, or for closing subgroup achievement gaps.

Avalon was recognized for its progress in closing achievement gaps.

According to the Department of Education, “Exemplary Achievement Gap Closing” schools have made the greatest advances in closing subgroup achievement gaps in English and mathematics over the past three to five years, as measured by state assessments.

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Blue Ribbon schools can benefit from the distinction by attracting new business opportunities or financial assistance.

Where school choice is an option, the Department of Education says the number of student applications for Blue Ribbon Schools tends to soar.

They say the award can also inspire students and re-energize staff and parents.

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As a National Blue Ribbon School Principal, Avalon Principal Karen Furno will also be called on to give presentations at state, regional, and professional school meetings about their practices.

For more information on Avalon Middle School, click here. See a full list of the 2021 National Blue Ribbon Schools here.

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