JISD celebrates Blue Ribbon schools

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JISD students listen to the presentations Monday morning at the district's celebration for Fred Douglass and West Side elementary schools. The pair of schools won Blue Ribbon recognition for academic performance. Progress photo, right, by Nathan Straus
A pair of Fred Douglass Elementary students enjoy a treat provided by Blue Bell Creameries in honor of the school's Blue Ribbon honor Monday. Photo courtesy of JISD
West Side kindergarteners scream for the ice cream given to them by Blue Bell Creameries in honor of their Blue Ribbon achievements Monday. Photo courtesy of JISD

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September 20, 2010

Nathan Straus Jacksonville Daily Progress The Jacksonville Daily Progress Mon Sep 20, 2010, 07:40 PM CDT

JACKSONVILLE — Jacksonville Independent School District staff, administration and students gathered into the Lon Morris College gym Monday morning to celebrate the educational success of West Side and Fred Douglass elementary schools. Both schools were among about 25 Texas schools given the Blue Ribbon recognition.

Superintendent Dr. Joe Wardell spoke to the assembled crowd of students, teachers, administrators and local dignitaries.

“There are four things that set apart a Blue Ribbon school,” Wardell said. “First, there is the belief all students can learn and do well.”

He added the schools are data driven, with everyone on the campus a capable leader.

“There is also the stress on higher education,” he said. “We look forward to seeing all of you in a college setting.”

James Houser, a member of the JISD Board of Trustees, said the Blue Ribbon designation to two schools in the district has become a mark of renown.

“The district, the state and the entire nation are proud of you,” Houser said.

Phillip Smith, regional representative for Representative Jeb Hensarling (R-TX), gave Hensarling’s congratulations to the students and teachers for their hard work.

“It is a huge accomplishment,” Smith said. Other local dignitaries, including Chuck Hopson (R-Jacksonville) and Robert Nichols (R-Jacksonville), also attended.

Jacksonville Mayor Robert Haberle declared Monday as city-wide Jacksonville Independent School District Day.

In addition, a reception was held for the schools at the Norman Activity Center Monday afternoon. This was hosted by the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce.

“We thank you for what you’ve done to raise the bar,” Haberle said during the reception. “You have carried it to a new high and as a community we can’t say ‘thank you’ enough.”

Fred Douglass Elementary School Principal Amber Penn said she is excited her teachers and staff and the West Side Elementary School teachers and staff have been given the opportunity to celebrate.

“It’s finally here and it’s official,” Penn said. “We get to honor the teachers and staff working so hard. It’s a big day.”

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JISD celebrates Blue Ribbon schools

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