Two Montgomery County Public Schools were honored Thursday by the Maryland General Assembly as part of the 2025-2026 Maryland Blue Ribbon Schools program.
Diamond Elementary School in Gaithersburg and Wilson Wims Elementary School in Clarksburg were recognized on the floor of both the Maryland House of Delegates and the Maryland Senate in Annapolis. The recognition celebrated schools across the state for academic excellence and progress in closing achievement gaps.
The Maryland Blue Ribbon Schools Program was reinstated last fall by Governor Wes Moore after the U.S. Department of Education discontinued the National Blue Ribbon Schools Program. Seven schools across Maryland were recognized this year, including two from Montgomery County Public Schools.
Diamond Elementary School, which opened in 1975, serves approximately 658 students from more than 50 countries. The Gaithersburg school’s motto, “Excellence Through Effort,” reflects its emphasis on respect, responsibility, and safety while encouraging students to grow academically, socially, and emotionally through active participation and critical thinking.
Wilson Wims Elementary School in Clarksburg was recognized in the Exemplary Achievement Gap Closing category for its success in narrowing performance gaps between student groups. The school promotes a culture of growth through its P.R.I.D.E. program, which focuses on core values and encourages students to deepen their understanding of academic content through meaningful instruction.
Maryland State Superintendent of Schools Dr. Carey M. Wright said the honorees represent schools that are “leading the way” in education. “These Blue Ribbon Schools exemplify excellence in teaching and learning, as well as the determination and resilience that drive student success,” Wright said.
In addition to the two Montgomery County schools, honorees included Baltimore Polytechnic Institute, Stoneleigh Elementary School in Baltimore County, Myersville Elementary School in Frederick County, St. Louis School in Clarksville, and Little Flower School in Bethesda.
Diamond Elementary was recognized in both the Exemplary High Performing and Exemplary Achievement Gap Closing categories, while Wilson Wims received recognition for closing achievement gaps.
Under the revived Maryland program, public and Catholic schools are eligible for recognition. The Maryland State Department of Education now partners with the Archdioceses of Baltimore, Washington, and Wilmington to highlight schools demonstrating strong academic achievement and progress in reducing disparities among student groups.
Each of the honored schools will receive a Maryland Blue Ribbon Schools banner, flag, and official award citation.
