OSHS Named Inaugural Mississippi Blue Ribbon School

OCEAN SPRINGS, Miss (OSSD) -- The Mississippi Department of Education (MDE) has named Ocean Springs High School as one of three schools in Mississippi to receive Blue Ribbon School status as part of their inaugural class and the only high school to receive this prestigious recognition.

 

MDE’s establishment of the Mississippi Blue Ribbon School program follows the termination of the U.S. Department of Education’s former National Blue Ribbon Schools Program in August. This state-level program continues the annual recognition of the state’s highest-performing schools. The Mississippi Blue Ribbon School designation uses the same criteria for selection as the national program and carries the same level of prestige. The recognition highlights schools that excel in academic performance and/or make significant strides in closing achievement gaps among different student groups.

 

“Mississippi Blue Ribbon Schools are led by leaders who articulate a clear vision of instructional excellence and uphold high standards. They showcase effective teaching methods and offer robust professional development for their staff. Data-driven instruction is a hallmark, and there is a concerted effort to ensure every student succeeds. Collaboration among families, communities, and educators is a key component of their success,” MDE said in Wednesday’s press release.

 

MDE selected the 2025 Mississippi Blue Ribbon Schools based on student performance data including assessment results, student subgroup performance and graduation rates. Each nominated school submits a comprehensive application detailing its school culture, curriculum, assessments, instructional practices, professional development, leadership, family, and community involvement.

 

“MDE is proud to continue the longstanding tradition of recognizing outstanding schools that serve as models for the state and nation,” said Dr. Lance Evans, state superintendent of education. “Congratulations to the students, educators, families and communities of the inaugural Mississippi Blue Ribbon Schools for earning the state’s top recognition for achievement.”

 

For more information on the newly-established Mississippi Blue Ribbon School program, click here.