Diamond Elementary School in Gaithersburg and Wilson Wims Elementary School in Clarksburg are among Maryland’s seven new Blue Ribbon Schools.
Maryland had discontinued the program after the 2019-2020 school year, but reinstated the Blue Ribbon Schools recognition program this year after the U.S. Department of Education discontinued its National Blue Ribbon Schools program.
“While the federal government steps away from its obligations to our students, Maryland is stepping up,” announced Gov. Wes Moore. “We are proud to elevate and honor these exceptional institutions of learning, which are inspiring the next generation to work and lead. Together, we must continue our work to ensure every Maryland child receives a world-class education.”
Schools receive this honor based on student performance on national and state assessment, as well as work to narrow performance disparities between different student groups compared to the state average.
Congratulations to Maryland's 2025 Blue Ribbon Schools awardees! These outstanding schools are being honored for their excellence, innovation, and unwavering commitment to student success! @GovWesMoore
Congratulations to:
✨ @Official_BPI – @BaltCitySchools
✨ @DiamondElem -… pic.twitter.com/W50RCmYU1W— Maryland State Department of Education (@MdPublicSchools) September 30, 2025
“Our Maryland Blue Ribbon Schools are shining examples of excellence through dedicated leadership, passionate teaching, and strong family partnerships,” said State Superintendent of Schools Dr. Carey M. Wright. “These schools model the ‘best of the best’ practices in teaching and learning across the state with an emphasis on progress as well as success.”
Wilson Wims Elementary was recognized in the Exemplary Achievement Gap Closing category for narrowing performance disparities between different student groups. Diamond Elementary was recognized in both categories.
The schools will be formally honored in November at a State Board of Education meeting and next spring by the State Senate and House of Delegates in Annapolis. The schools will receive a Maryland Blue Ribbon School banner, flag and award citations.
