The United States Department of Education recognizes schools where students perform at very high levels or where significant improvements are being made in students' academic achievement.
Lee Elementary staff and community completed a self-evaluation process, examining itself in terms of what works in the best schools in the country. We were required to show excellence in the areas of high quality instruction, strong leadership, sound curriculum, a safe learning environment, and parental involvement. In 2001 and 2021, Lee Elementary School was named a National Blue Ribbon school for academic excellence.
The Blue Ribbon Application Process encourages schools seeking to improve to recognize the many things they do well and to focus on the areas that need to be strengthened. Earning the honor of National Blue Ribbon School is a high point in a journey to be the best we can. It is not a destination, but a place to celebrate our achievement along the way in our journey.
The California Distinguished Schools Program honors some of California's most exemplary and inspiring public schools. Schools selected for the Distinguished School Award demonstrate significant gains in narrowing the achievement gap.
In 1995, 2004 and 2018 Lee Elementary earned the California honor of Distinguished School by demonstrating a focus on providing an environment that placed student performance and development as a priority.
California's Gold Ribbon Schools Program began in 2015-16 to recognize outstanding programs and practices in schools. In 2016 Lee was named a California Gold Ribbon School!
