ADMINISTRATIVE

The U.S. Department of Education has issued the 2000-2001 
nomination package for the Blue Ribbon Schools 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 an effective working 
relationship among all members of the  school community. 
The school climate should ensure a challenging curriculum 
and high-quality instructional programs. Further, there 
must be a strong commitment to educational excellence for 
all students.

Division superintendents are invited to submit 
applications of elementary schools in their divisions to 
be considered for nomination to the Blue Ribbon Schools 
Program by the Superintendent of Public Instruction. 
Schools nominated should be those that demonstrate the 
characteristics specified above.

A copy of the application to participate in the Blue 
Ribbon Schools Program is enclosed. Division 
superintendents may reproduce the application in the 
quantities needed. Applications must be postmarked and 
mailed no later than September 27, 2000.

For further information, please contact Vernon L. Wildy 
at the Virginia Department of Education, P. O. Box 2120, 
101 N. Fourteenth Street, Richmond, Virginia 23218-2120; 
(804) 225-2877. Application packets should also be sent 
to this address.

PDS/eh

Enclosure:      A hard copy of this memo and its attach-
                ment will be sent to the superintendent's
                office.