Tom Joy Digital Literacy & Leadership Magnet Elementary School has earned recognition as a 2024 Blue Ribbon School of Excellence, Beacon School. Based on the Blue Ribbon Schools of Excellence national validated assessment process, Tom Joy has met or exceeded the nine performance areas for this recognition:
- Student Focus and Support
- School Organization and Culture
- Challenging Standards and Curriculum
- Active Teaching and Learning
- Technology and Integration
- Professional Community
- Leadership and Education Vitality
- School, Family, and Community Partnerships
- Indicators of Success
In addition to the comprehensive review process for the nine performance areas, Blue Ribbon Schools of Excellence also completed stakeholder surveys, interviews, and school visits at Tom Joy in East Nashville.
“Over the last two years, we have thoughtfully incorporated feedback from our students, our families, our faculty and the Blue Ribbon Assessment Team to make sure that our students are receiving high-quality instruction each and every day,” Tom Joy Principal Dr. Shelly Hood said. “To be selected as a Blue Ribbon School is the highlight of our year and reinforces our belief that Tom Joy Elementary Magnet School is the best choice for our families and the community.”
As a Digital Literacy & Leadership Magnet School, Tom Joy incorporates the purposeful use of digital tools to build student engagement, empower student voice, and create more meaningful learning experiences. Tom Joy students work with real-world technologies to learn and communicate.
“Tom Joy’s success makes me so proud of the entire school community,” MNPS Director of Schools Dr. Adrienne Battle said. “The leadership team, teachers, support staff and community partners have embraced innovation in their drive to increase student outcomes and serve a diverse group of students and families. Congratulations to Principal Hood and everyone else who played a part in this outstanding achievement.”
The award was presented at the Blue Ribbon Schools of Excellence Conference in Orlando, Fla., in December. Over 40 states are represented at this national event each year.
For more information, visit the Blue Ribbon Schools website.