ELMWOOD PARK – Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) today announced 24 schools recognized as 2026 Governor's Blue Ribbon Schools during a recognition ceremony at John Mills Elementary School in Elmwood Park. Now in its second year, the program celebrates schools that demonstrate educational excellence through high academic achievement or significant progress in closing achievement gaps.
“I want to congratulate our 2026 Governor’s Blue Ribbon Schools, who demonstrate what is possible when students, educators, families, and communities come together to support our children in reaching their full potential,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “All across the state, Illinois schools are reaching new heights in school performance, graduation rates, and learning proficiency – a testament to the passion and dedication of our teachers and the power of sustained public investment in education.” \u200b
The 2026 class of Governor's Blue Ribbon Schools includes 16 public schools and eight nonpublic schools representing communities throughout Illinois. Together, these schools reflect the breadth of Illinois' educational landscape, including rural and suburban districts as well as urban communities serving students across the state.
Last year, the state stepped up to establish the program shortly after the Trump Administration abruptly canceled the U.S. Department of Education’s prestigious nationwide program. The Governor's Blue Ribbon Schools Program carries forward a longstanding 40 year tradition of honoring schools based on exemplary student achievement and improvements and serves as an annual opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate the hard work of principals, teachers, support staff, and students setting a new standard of excellence.
"Being named a Governor's Blue Ribbon School is a remarkable achievement and a testament to the hard work of students, educators, staff, and families," said State Superintendent of Education Dr. Tony Sanders. "These schools have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to student success, whether through exceptional academic performance or meaningful progress in closing achievement gaps. Their accomplishments reflect the strength of Illinois education and provide examples of excellence for schools across our state."
This year's celebration was hosted by John Mills Elementary School in Elmwood Park Community Unit School District 401, one of eight schools honored as an Exemplary Achievement Gap Closing School. Serving a diverse student population, including 40% English learners and 58% students from low-income households, John Mills has demonstrated exceptional success in helping students achieve at high levels through inclusive instructional practices, targeted supports, and strong partnerships with families and the community.
Illinois continues to invest in public education through evidence-based funding and other funding and programs that help schools expand opportunities for students and strengthen academic outcomes statewide. Since taking office, Governor Pritzker has increased evidenced-based funding for schools by more than $2.5 billion. By continuing the Governor's Blue Ribbon Schools Program, Illinois is ensuring that the accomplishments of outstanding schools, students, and educators are recognized and celebrated while inspiring excellence in communities across the state. All honorees will also be invited to a special recognition event at the Governor’s Mansion in Springfield this spring.
2026 Governor's Blue Ribbon Schools
Public Schools
Nonpublic Schools
“Congratulations to the students, educators and families of John Mills Elementary on this well-deserved Blue Ribbon recognition,” said Senate President Don Harmon (D-Oak Park). “You’ve given Elmwood Park a wonderful reason to celebrate. The Governor’s Blue Ribbon Schools program ensures that Illinois continues to recognize outstanding schools and the hard work that helps our students succeed.”
“Throughout the years, I’ve seen the amazing work John Mills Elementary School has done to support our students. They're an outstanding institution that has demonstrated their commitment to academic achievement and uplifting students within our community,” said state Rep. Norma Hernandez (D-Melrose Park). “Our teachers and staff show up everyday to guarantee our students are getting the best education and have a support system they can rely on. That’s why, it’s important that we celebrate this exemplary achievement and continue funding our local schools and educational programs so we can guide more students towards success.”
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