It’s one of 362 schools across the country to receive this honor.
Frederick, Md (KM) The U.S. Department of Education has named 362 schools across the country as National Blue Ribbon Schools, and one of them is Urbana High School, the only high school in Maryland to receive this honor. . “We feel very honored and gratified,” says Principal David Kehne. “Our students and staff work very hard every day, and our high student achievement is something we’re all very, very proud of.”
Kehne gives a lot of credit for Urbana High’s success to the students, staff, families and the community. “I think Urbana High in its 25th year is a school where we celebrate respect, unity, integrity and pride,” he says.
And, he says, the school has another advantage. “We have a diverse student population. And that diversity makes us stronger and more curious about the world in which we live.”
The award from the U.S. Department of Education honors public and private elementary, middle and high schools whose students achieve high levels, or have made significant progress and helped close gaps in achievement among disadvantaged and minority student
Urbana High was named a Maryland Blue Ribbon School in December, 2018. “We were reviewed by a state panel for quality and for review of student achievement. As a result of that, we qualified for a national competition,” says Kehne.
Urbana High will be honored for its achievements during an awards ceremony on November 14-15 in Washington DC.
In the past 37 years, the Frederick County School System says its local schools have received 12 National Blue Ribbon honors: Urbana Elementary in 2018; Centerville Elementary in 2017; Kemptown Elementary in 2015; New Market Elementary in 2010; WIndsor Knolls Middle School in 2002; Middletown Middle in 1998; Yellow Springs Elementary in 1994; Frederick High and Linganore High in 1993; Governor Thomas Johnson High in 1991; Middletown Elementary in 1990′ and Middletown High in 1987.
Urbana High has an enrollment of 1,850 students, and 86 teachers, according to FCPS.
By Kevin McManus