Missouri Gov. Mike Parson and other dignitaries were here Thursday, Oct. 6, to celebrate Eugene Field Elementary School being named a National Blue Ribbon School.

Parson made sure the assembled students and staff were aware that Eugene Field “is one of the top schools in the state.”

Only seven Missouri schools have achieved Blue Ribbon distinction this year.

Eugene Field was first named a Missouri Gold Star School in April, which resulted in the successful nomination for Blue Ribbon status. 

Gold Star status was based on academic achievement on the 2021 state test. To become a Blue Ribbon School, Eugene Field’s latest test scores had to be consistent with those of 2021.

Parson noted that being a Blue Ribbon School reflects well on the teachers, school administrators, school board and community.

He prompted a loud round of applause for the school’s nine classroom teachers and staff.

And Superintendent Tony Rossetti said, “I thank you for staying the course” during one of a most difficult time, the pandemic.

Another celebration will be held from 5 to 6 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 13, for returning fifth and sixth graders, who were really responsible for the school’s exceptional achievement because it was their test scores. They will receive Blue Ribbon t-shirts and be served blue cookies.

Eugene Field is a fourth-grade center with an enrollment of 191 students this year in nine classrooms.