ST. PAUL, MN - Today, the U.S. Department of Education announced that eight schools in Minnesota have been named National Blue Ribbon Schools, including six schools in the Brainerd School District, ACGC Elementary School in Grove City, and Battle Lake Secondary School. The National Blue Ribbon Schools Program recognizes schools that are making exemplary progress in closing achievement gaps or exemplary academic performance. The following is a statement from Governor Mark Dayton.

What a phenomenal accomplishment, for which the Brainerd School Board, administrators, teachers, parents, and students should be very proud. I recently visited one of Brainerd's award-winning schools, where I saw the dedication, enthusiasm, and teamwork which made them so successful. I offer them all my warmest congratulations.