FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                    

Oct. 23, 2025

TOPEKA — Kansas Education Commissioner Dr. Randy Watson has announced three Kansas elementary schools have been named 2025 National Blue Ribbon Schools.

The following schools received recognition in the Exemplary High Performing Schools category:

• McLean Science Technology Magnet, Wichita USD 259
• Jefferson West Elementary School, Jefferson West USD 340
• Sterling Grade School, Sterling USD 376

Prior to the U.S. Department of Education discontinuing the Blue Ribbon Schools program in September, the program recognized public and private elementary, middle and high schools in one of two performance categories:

• Exemplary High Performing Schools: These schools are among the top performers in their state as measured by state assessments or nationally normed tests.
• Exemplary Achievement Gap Closing Schools: These schools excel in narrowing achievement gaps between different student groups and the overall student body.

Educators in Blue Ribbon schools employ effective teaching methods with data-driven instruction, participate in robust professional development and collaborate with their students’ families and community in a concerted effort to ensure every student reaches their potential.

“We are truly honored that our school, our teachers, and our students are recognized as a Blue Ribbon School,” said Tina Young, principal of McLean Science Technology Magnet. “Our magnet program offers unique learning opportunities that fosters students’ curiosity with hands-on integration of science and technology in all of our classes, inspiring them to be the leaders of tomorrow.”

Wes Sturgeon, principal of Jefferson West Elementary, said the school’s staff, students, and families are “proudly recognizing this achievement, which highlights the dedication and collaboration that define the Jefferson West community.”

“This recognition represents years of hard work, high expectations, and a shared belief that every child can succeed,” he said. “We are proud to represent our district and community on the public stage.”

“This prestigious award reflects the dedication of our outstanding teachers and staff, who work tirelessly to ensure every student thrives both personally and academically,” said Jamie Burtner, principal of Sterling Grade School. “We have a proud history of achievement, previously earning recognition as a National ESEA Distinguished School in 2024 and 2016, and a National Blue Ribbon School in 2018.   We are humbled to once again receive national recognition that celebrates the heart and soul of our entire school, parents and community.”

This is the first time McLean Science Technology Magnet has received the Blue Ribbon distinction and the sixth Wichita USD 259 school to receive the award. Jefferson West Elementary is the first USD 340 school to be awarded this honor.

Including the 2025 awardees, 167 Kansas public and six private schools have been designated as Blue Ribbon schools since 1983. Click here to see a full list of the Kansas Blue Ribbon Schools.

Contact: Denise Kahler, KSDE director of communications and recognition programs, denise.kahler@ksde.gov, or (785) 296-4876.

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