FORT MILL, S.C. — River Trail Elementary School has been recognized by the National Blue Ribbon Schools of Excellence organization as a 2024 Blue Ribbon Lighthouse School.
The Lighthouse School distinction comes after extensive surveys and a two-day site visit, where classrooms were observed and students, parents and teachers were interviewed.
Lighthouse Schools excel in nine categories, including:
- Student focus and support
- School organization and culture
- Challenging standards and curriculum
- Active teaching and learning
- Technology integration
- Professional community
- Leadership and educational vitality
- School, family and community partnerships
- Indicators of success
Designation as a Blue Ribbon Lighthouse School lasts for five years, at which time the school will be eligible for renewal. Blue Ribbon Lighthouse Schools commit to sharing expertise and exemplary practices with other schools on a local, regional, and national level as well as providing mentoring and networking to schools seeking guidance and assistance in school improvement initiatives.
The award will be presented to River Trail Elementary School during the Blue Ribbon Schools Conference in Orlando, Florida in December.
“Our students, staff, and families are what make River Trail such an incredible place to be,” said Principal Savannah Steger. “Together, we continue to grow and live out our mission of thriving and impacting the world by working hard and taking care of each ‘otter’! We are so proud to be a Lighthouse School!”
