ADMINISTRATIVE

  The U. S. Department of Education has issued the 1996-97
  nomination package for the Blue Ribbon School Program. The
  purpose of the program is to identify and give public
  recognition to outstanding public and private elementary
  schools across the United States. For a school to receive
  Blue Ribbon School status, school leaders must demonstrate
  strong leadership and effective working relationship among
  all members of the school community. The school climate
  should be one that is safe, orderly, purposeful, and
  conducive to learning. The school should ensure a
  challenging curriculum and high-quality instructional
  program. Further, there must be a strong commitment to
  educational excellence for all students.
  
  Division superintendents are invited to submit the names and
  applications of elementary schools in their divisions to be
  considered for nomination by the Superintendent of Public
  Instruction to the national project. Schools nominated
  should be schools that are doing an exceptional job and are
  implementing programs that stimulate others to try new
  ideas.
  
  A copy of the application to be used in making nominations
  is enclosed. Division superintendents may reproduce the
  application in the quantities needed. Nomination
  applications must be received by the Department of Education
  no later than September 30, 1996.
  
  Applications for locally nominated schools will be screened
  by a panel of educators appointed by the Superintendent of
  Public Instruction. Schools selected by the panel will be
  visited prior to the final selection for nomination to the
  U. S. Department of Education.
  
  For further information, please contact Vernon L. Wildy at
  the Virginia Department of Education, P. O. Box 2120,
  Richmond, Virginia 23218-2120; (804) 225-2877.  Application
  packets should also be sent to this address.
  
  WCBJr/eh
  
  Attachment:  A copy of this memo and its attachment will
               be sent to the superintendent's office.