Pierre, S.D. – The South Dakota Department of Education designated four South Dakota schools as South Dakota Blue Ribbon Schools for their commendable performance in student achievement. South Dakota Blue Ribbon Schools are selected based on longitudinal data that demonstrate high proficiency in English Language Arts and math. Additionally, elementary and middle schools must achieve notable success in attendance and high schools in graduation rates.

The 2026 South Dakota Blue Ribbon Schools are:

• Corsica-Stickney Elementary School;
• Mount Vernon Middle School;
• O’Gorman High School; and
• Tea Area’s Legacy Elementary School.

Corsica-Stickney Elementary School is now a four-time Blue Ribbon recipient. Through close collaboration, educators work together to implement interventions at all grade levels to ensure their students receive the targeted support they need. This year, they are placing greater emphasis on literacy through the implementation of the Science of Reading principles.

As a small school, Mount Vernon Middle School prioritizes relationships and communication with their families, as it greatly impacts all students’ learning. Utilizing interim assessments and other key data from their school, they proactively target and address the content that individual students need extra assistance with, contributing to their success.

O’Gorman High School is now a five-time recipient of Blue Ribbon recognition. O’Gorman recognizes how critical it is to maximize instructional time. They place significant emphasis on partnering with families to improve attendance and reduce absenteeism, allowing students to take full advantage of educational opportunities available.

Legacy Elementary in Tea Area School District grounds its approach in instructional systems that evolve and grow to meet the needs of every student. The students develop their own learning charts and portfolios to see their growth while becoming active participants in their own learning.

“These schools have made significant strides in ensuring they match the needs of their students,” said Secretary of Education Dr. Joseph Graves. “It is my privilege to recognize the exemplary efforts they are all making to ensure South Dakota students are receiving enhanced learning to achieve great success.” 

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