Fallston Middle Named Maryland Blue Ribbon School

FALLSTON, MD — Fallston Middle has been named a Maryland Blue Ribbon School, state and local officials announced on Tuesday. Fallston was one of six schools to receive the state recognition for 2017-2018.

The schools were chosen for their commitment to academic excellence, according to the Maryland State Department of Education, which picks the honorees.

The six schools were Fallston Middle School in Harford County, West Towson Elementary School in Baltimore County, Urbana Elementary School in Frederick County, Waterloo Elementary School in Howard County and Bannockburn Elementary School and Luxmanor Elementary School in Montgomery County.

“Each one of these schools is laser-focused on student success, and the results speak for themselves,” State Superintendent of Schools Dr. Karen Salmon said in a statement. "Creative teachers work with engaged and dedicated administrators, parents and the community to develop strong learning environments for their students."

Fallston was recognized for creating a culture that embraces reading at school and at home. It has won the Harford County Public Library's Summer Reading Challenge for middle schools the past four years in a row, officials said, and seven of the last nine years.

The school also has many extracurricular offerings and encourages students to think of the world around them. Fallston sent three students to the state competition for the National Geography Bee, and raised more than $100,000 for the American Heart Association last year. Its students' artworks were also displayed in the Maryland Treasury Building and the Governor's holiday tree.

It has partnered with Fallston High School, whose National Honor Society students provide math tutoring to those in middle school. Fallston Middle School is also a Professional Development School for Towson University.

“Fallston Middle School epitomizes what it means to be a Blue Ribbon School,” Harford County Public Schools Superintendent Barbara Cananvan said in a statement.. "Focusing on ensuring the success of each child entrusted to them is truly the hallmark of their achievement."

Fallston Middle and the five other Maryland Blue Ribbon Schools will each receive a Maryland Blue Ribbon flag; a monetary prize; $1,000 in office supplies; interactive technology equipment; and a congratulations party at the school. There will also be a dinner in Annapolis to honor them on March 12, 2018, where the state House of Delegates and Senate will recognize them.

The Maryland Blue Ribbon Schools may also apply to become National Blue Ribbon Schools, a designation that is awarded by the U.S. Department of Education.

Fallston Middle School Principal Anthony Bess issued a statement of gratitude following the news that the his school had been selected for the state recognition.

"To the faculty and staff, parents and business partners, and most importantly, the students, thanks for making Fallston Middle School a Maryland Blue Ribbon School," Bess said. "Their commitment to excellence is contagious..."

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