MARYLAND (WBFF) — Maryland leaders are shining a spotlight on 23 schools statewide, recognizing their commitment to educational achievement and progress.
Governor Wes Moore named the 2027 Maryland Blue Ribbon Schools, marking an increase from the seven schools recognized last year. The honorees include 12 Maryland public schools, six Archdiocese of Baltimore schools and five Archdiocese of Washington schools. The Maryland State Department of Education runs the program alongside the Archdiocese of Baltimore and the Archdiocese of Washington. Schools are chosen based on state and national assessment results and efforts to close achievement gaps.
Moore reinstated the Maryland Blue Ribbon Schools program after the National Blue Ribbon Schools Program was shut down by the U.S. Department of Education under President Trump in August 2025.
“Here in Maryland we have the talent and the drive to have the best schools in the nation, and these exceptional institutions are leading our state in that effort,” Moore said. “While our administration works to ensure every Maryland student has a world-class education, we are proud to honor a growing cohort of schools that embody the best of what our state has to offer.”
Maryland State Superintendent of Schools Dr. Carey M. Wright highlighted the level of cooperation behind the achievement. “Maryland Blue Ribbon Schools demonstrate what is possible when strong leadership, dedicated educators and engaged families work together on behalf of students,” Wright said. She added, “These schools are among the best of the best in our state, achieving one of the highest honors in education. We are proud and excited to celebrate their accomplishments.”
Offering his praise, Maryland State Board of Education President Dr. Joshua L. Michael said, “Maryland’s Blue Ribbon Schools demonstrate what is possible when talented educators, dedicated students and supportive communities come together around a shared commitment to excellence.” Michael continued, “We celebrate their achievements and the example they set for schools across Maryland.”
Catholic education leaders also celebrated the recognition. “Academic excellence and faith formation go hand in hand in our Catholic schools. These Maryland Blue Ribbon School Awards affirm the dedication of our educators, the partnership of our families and the achievements of our students,” said Sister Patricia McCarron, Archdiocese of Baltimore Superintendent. “Rooted in Christ, our schools nurture each child’s intellectual, spiritual and personal growth, preparing students to use their gifts in service to others. We congratulate our honored school communities on this outstanding achievement.”
Archdiocese of Washington Superintendent of Schools Kelly Branaman described the award as evidence of dedication in Catholic classrooms. “We are incredibly proud to celebrate the Catholic schools of the Archdiocese of Washington recognized as Maryland Blue Ribbon Schools,” Branaman said. “This honor reflects the dedication of our exceptional educators, the commitment of our school leaders and the partnership of families who work together to form students in faith, nurture academic excellence and inspire a lifelong love of learning. It is a testament to the extraordinary work happening every day in our Catholic schools, where we educate the whole child and bring the light of the Gospel of Jesus Christ to life in our communities.”
WBFF has been following the impact of the Moore-Miller administration’s work on schools and the growing number of honorees.
The Maryland Blue Ribbon Schools are:
Maryland public schools
Archdiocese of Baltimore
These schools will be formally recognized at the Maryland State Board of Education meeting on Tuesday, Dec. 8 at the General Assembly legislative session next spring and each will receive a banner, flag and award citations.
This post was originally published on Fox 45 by Sinclair Media Group.
Local Story
