Country Meadows Earns 'Blue Ribbon' Award

A Muskego elementary school's success has caught the attention of the U.S. Department of Education.

Country Meadows Elementary School is one of just five Wisconsin schools to earn a Blue Ribbon award, which it got for being among the state's highest-performing schools as measured by state assessments and national tests, according to a Muskego-Norway School District news release. 


"We are honored and humbled by the recognition," Principal Gary Goelz said in the news release. "It's an opportunity for districts throughout the state and nation to take a closer look at the amazing learning experiences happening every day for students at Country Meadows and throughout the Muskego-Norway School District.

"It's not so much about the award as it is about the justification that all of our hard work is focused in the right areas, and is ultimately paying off for students relative to their learning."

The school, one of 286 around the country to earn the award, was nominated by state Superintendent Tony Evers last fall and completed an extensive application providing evidence of students' academic success.

The district said rising student achievement over the past few years was a major contributor in getting the Blue Ribbon Award.

"The recognition does provide us with fuel to continue the work, most often focused on reading and math teaching practices, making sure we're spending our time on improving our teaching skills that will have the most leverage on student achievement," Goelz said. 

Country Meadows will get a plaque and flag signifying its status as a Blue Ribbon School. Goelz, Superintendent Kelly Thompson and a staff member will travel to Washington, D.C. for a recognition ceremony in November.

Thompson said the award is a "testament to the teaching and learning culture that exists in Muskego-Norway."

"The district is truly appreciative and indebted to the parents and the community for their partnership and support in the achievements at Country Meadows and across the entire system," Thompson said.