Oakwood Elementary in Hannibal recognized as one of eight Gold Star schools in Missouri

HANNIBAL, Mo. — Oakwood Elementary School recently was recognized as one of Missouri’s eight Gold Star Schools for 2024. This recognition, awarded by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), aligns with the National Blue Ribbon Schools Program sponsored by the U.S. Department of Education.

The program recognizes schools for outstanding academic achievement or for performing at high levels while serving a significant proportion of disadvantaged students. This is the first year for a school from Hannibal to receive this recognition.

In a press release, superintendent Susan Johnson expressed pride in this achievement.

“This prestigious award is a reflection of the high standards and dedication at Oakwood Elementary School,” she said. “I am incredibly proud of Oakwood Elementary’s staff and students for this outstanding achievement.”

The Missouri Gold Star Schools program, established in 1991, uses criteria similar to that of the National Blue Ribbon Schools Program. The U.S. Department of Education will announce the Blue Ribbon Schools this fall.

Other schools to be recognized were:

• Bristol Elementary School, Webster Groves School District
• Meramec Elementary School, Clayton School District
• Metro Academic and Classical High School, St. Louis Public School District
• Ralph M. Captain Elementary School, Clayton School District
• Richland Elementary School, Richland R-I School District
• Voy Spears, Jr. Elementary School, Blue Springs R-IV School District
• William Yates Elementary School, Blue Springs R-IV School District

To read more about Missouri’s Gold Star Schools: visit dese.mo.gov.