Thomas W. Mahan Elementary in Norwich received a National Blue Ribbon School designation as an Exemplary Achievement Gap Closing School.
The award means the elementary school is among Connecticut’s highest performing schools in closing the achievement gap for English and math over the past five years.
Representative Joe Courtney presented the official plaque to the school in front of a classroom filled with students.
"There’s no question that resources have been very strained over the years and to see with all of that challenge, them to emerge nationally as a Blue Ribbon School really adds an extra layer of specialness," Courtney said.
Norwich Schools Superintendent Abby Dolliver said there are more than 30 languages spoken throughout the entire district. English is not the first language for more than 600 students.
"In that way, it’s the biggest gift in giving kids hope, and families hope and all of the Norwich community hope that we can make a difference. And we know we can," Dolliver said.
This year, 342 schools were recognized by the federal Department of Education as Blue Ribbon Schools. In eastern Connecticut that includes East Lyme High School in East Lyme and Oakdale Elementary School in Montville.
