Maxwell & Meadowthorpe among National Blue Ribbon Schools

KDE to Celebrate State’s Four Qualifiers in Frankfort

Maxwell and Meadowthorpe elementaries are elated to have earned 2025 National Blue Ribbon Schools status, despite no federal recognition in Washington, D.C. Instead, the Kentucky Department of Education will salute them and two other honorees from the Commonwealth at the Dec. 4 state board of education meeting in Frankfort. 

“We are beyond excited and humbled,” said Maxwell Principal Matthew Spottswood. “This award is the culmination of an incredible journey — one rooted in love and the steadfast belief that remarkable achievements are possible when we collectively embrace the process. This process involves seeing the absolute best in our dedicated staff and students and then empowering them to manifest that potential,” Spottswood said, adding, “This is truly a community award, and the credit belongs to the entire Maxwell community.” 

Meadowthorpe Principal Stephanie Price echoed his sentiments. “It is a testament to the dedication, hard work, and collaborative spirit that defines our students, staff, and families,” she said of qualifying as a National Blue Ribbon School. “I want to express just how incredibly proud I am of this exceptional accomplishment. Congratulations again to everyone who plays a part in the success of Meadowthorpe Elementary. This is an honor we share, and one we will celebrate proudly!”

The schools ordinarily would have been recognized during a ceremony in the nation’s capital. However, just before the announcement naming the latest National Blue Ribbon Schools, the U.S. Department of Education abruptly ended the 43-year-old program. State officials were informed in late August. 

The National Blue Ribbon Schools program selected honorees based on all student scores, subgroup student scores, and graduation rates. Maxwell, Meadowthorpe, Tamarack Elementary in Daviess County, and Graves County Central Elementary met the criteria to qualify as Exemplary High-Performing Schools.