Ottawa Hills High School Named a National Blue Ribbon School, one of the most prestigious honors in American Education

The National Blue Ribbon Schools Program has recognized public and private schools for overall academic excellence for more than 40 years. Ottawa Hills High School was recognized in the Exemplary High Performing category, which identifies schools that rank among the highest performers in their state as measured by state assessments or national standardized testing. 

The honor is highly competitive. Schools must submit a rigorous application detailing their culture, curriculum, assessments, instructional practices, professional development, leadership, and family and community involvement. From all applications received nationally, no more than 420 schools are nominated before the final list is selected. 

In his congratulatory letter to the school, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine wrote, "This is an incredible honor and reflects the dedication of your entire school," adding, "Teachers and school leaders have the power to change lives."

Our school received notice of earning the award from the U.S. Department of Education last fall. While the program has historically been administered by the U.S. Department of Education, the award was officially presented by the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce in March 2026, following restructuring within the federal government.