RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCN) — Four public schools in North Carolina — including two in Wake County and one in Moore County — have been named the first-ever statewide winners of the Blue Ribbon Schools award, the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction announced on Monday.

The NCDPI stated that, following the discontinuation of the National Blue Ribbon Program by the U.S. Department of Education, a statewide program was created to honor schools that excel academically. These schools were chosen based on accountability results from the 2023-2024 school year.

Two categories were created, the department said: Exemplary High Performing and Exemplary Achievement Gap Closing. Of the four inaugural recipients, three were recognized in both categories.

The four Blue Ribbon Schools award winners

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