Two Local Schools Earn Blue Ribbon Honors

Sixteen schools across Indiana have just been named Indiana Blue Ribbon Schools, an honor that celebrates hard work, strong academic achievement, and a real commitment to helping students succeed. And dig this, two of those schools are right here in Southern Indiana!

Our Own Southern Indiana Standouts

Evansville Christian School Newburgh and Newburgh Elementary were both recognized at the Educational Excellence Awards Gala, held October 2nd in Indianapolis. Governor Braun praised the honorees as "a model for others across our state and nation of what is possible when we put students first."

in.gov/doe/
in.gov/doe/

What Exactly Is a Blue Ribbon School?

You may have heard of the National Blue Ribbon Schools program, which has been around since 1982. Indiana's version is much newer, and this is only its second year. The designation puts a spotlight on schools that go the extra mile to make learning exciting, supportive, and effective.

ALSO READ:  See Who Won the 2026 So. Indiana Marching Band Poll

But it's not just about test scores. These schools are recognized for creating places where kids can grow, explore, ask big questions, and thrive. That kind of environment doesn't happen by accident. It takes caring teachers, engaged students, and families and communities who show up for them.

A Win for All of Southwestern Indiana

If you live in the Tri-State area, this one's worth celebrating. The recognition shows that our local schools aren't just keeping pace with the rest of Indiana. They're helping lead the way.

WKDQ-FM logo
Get our free mobile app

If you run into a teacher, a principal, or a student from Evansville Christian School Newburgh or Newburgh Elementary, take a moment to say congratulations. They've earned it, and it's a great reminder of what's possible when a school puts kids first.

See Inside the EVSC's New Style Lab for Aspiring Cosmetologists

The new Style Lab at SICTC gives students 40 professional workstations and hands-on experience as they prepare for careers in cosmetology and barbering.

Gallery Credit: Bobby G.

30 Bizarre (and Real) Indiana High School Mascots

According to High School.com, there are 682 high schools in Indiana. 555 of those are public schools, while the remaining 127 are private. A majority of those schools have chosen typical mascots to represent them, like eagles, tigers, lions, jets, patriots, and so on and so forth. But, these 30 schools decided to go, well, a different direction.

Gallery Credit: Ryan O'Bryan

More From WKDQ-FM