Kenosha Unified is proud to announce that Prairie Lane has been recognized by the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction for outstanding achievement, following completion of the nomination and review process of the former National Blue Ribbon Schools Program.
Prairie Lane is a vibrant learning community where students thrive through engaging learning experiences. Collaborative teacher teams set high academic standards while offering diverse learning opportunities that spark curiosity. Students benefit from hands-on learning activities that foster teamwork and the impact of collective effort. Strong family partnerships help create memorable events, programs, and celebrations that strengthen the school community and support student success.
“This recognition is a testament to the hard work of our students, staff, and greater school community,” said Prairie Lane Elementary School Principal Camille Schroeder. “We are honored to be recognized as a Wisconsin Blue Ribbon School and remain committed to working together to maintain the high standards that our students and families expect at Prairie Lane.”
“This award recognizes the outstanding school community that Prairie Lane staff, students, and families have built through their collaborative efforts,” said KUSD Superintendent Dr. Jeff Weiss. “They have long demonstrated the power of school-family relationships in supporting student success, and this recognition affirms their hard work and dedication.”
The school and district thank students, families, educators, and community members for their continued support and engagement.
About the Blue Ribbon Award
The Blue Ribbon Schools Award honors elementary and secondary schools that are either academically superior or that demonstrate dramatic gains in student achievement. The award is given by the U.S. Department of Education to Wisconsin public schools that are nominated by the State Superintendent and that pass the U.S. Department of Education’s rigorous application process.
FAQ’s
Q. How do Wisconsin schools qualify to become a Blue Ribbon School?
A. Schools are nominated by the State Superintendent based on multiple criteria, including percent of students from disadvantaged backgrounds, demonstrating dramatic improvement or academically superior performance, and meeting Accountability requirements. Additional criteria are specified on the U.S. Department of Education Blue Ribbon Schools Award website.
Q. How many Wisconsin schools can receive the award each year?
A. Wisconsin may nominate up to eight schools each year. At least one third of the nominated schools must have at least 40% students from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Q. What is the timeline for applications?
A. The State Superintendent nominates eligible schools in the winter. Nominated schools submit applications to the U.S. Department of Education in the spring. The Secretary of Education announces the Blue Ribbon Schools the following fall. At that time, two representatives from each school, the principal and a teacher, are invited to an awards ceremony in Washington, D.C., where the schools receive a plaque and a flag signifying their Blue Ribbon Schools Award status.
Q. How can I make sure that my school is considered for nomination to the Blue Ribbon Schools Award?
A. All Wisconsin public schools are automatically considered for nomination for the award.
