Immaculate Heart of Mary School in Indianapolis was one of 11 schools to first receive Indiana’s Blue Ribbon Schools designation for their academic achievement. Photo from Google Maps.

News Release

INDIANA — The Indiana Department of Education on Tuesday, Oct. 28 announced 11 public and private schools as the first recipients of the Indiana Blue Ribbon Schools designation, recognizing campuses for exceptional academic achievement and student success.

Modeled after the National Blue Ribbon Schools program established in 1982, the new state-level honor celebrates schools that demonstrate excellence through strong student performance and collaborative school communities. The U.S. Department of Education has encouraged states to develop their own recognition programs to highlight local accomplishments.

Gov. Mike Braun said the award reflects the dedication of teachers, administrators, parents and communities working together to prioritize students and improve outcomes across Indiana.

This year’s inaugral Indiana Blue Ribbon Schools are Batesville High School; Brandywine Elementary School in New Palestine; Charles Elementary School in Richmond; Creekside Middle School in Carmel; East Side Elementary School in Brazil; Immaculate Heart of Mary School in Indianapolis; South Terrace Elementary in Poseyville; St. John the Evangelist School in St. John; St. Louis de Montfort School in Fishers; St. Mary’s Catholic School in North Vernon and St. Philip School in Mount Vernon.

Honorees will be formally recognized at the Educational Excellence Awards gala in Indianapolis on Friday, Nov. 21.

The Indiana Department of Education said the new initiative will continue annually, spotlighting schools that exemplify academic excellence and innovative approaches to supporting student learning.