Barrington Middle School was selected as one of just 25 middle schools from across the country to earn the prestigious 2014 National Blue Ribbon School recognition. US Secretary of Education Arne Duncan made the announcement on Tuesday, Sept. 30.

Barrington Middle School was the only middle school in Rhode Island selected for the honor and was one of just two middle schools from across all of New England to earn the award. (Two elementary schools in Rhode Island were also picked as National Blue Ribbon Schools.)

"These great schools are fulfilling the promise of American education—that all students, no matter their name or zip code, can flourish when schools provide safe, creative, and challenging learning environments,” Secretary Duncan said. “National Blue Ribbon Schools are models of consistent excellence and a resource for other schools and districts. We celebrate them for their tireless effort and boundless creativity in reaching and teaching every student.”

Barrington earned the honor in the "Exemplary High Performing Schools" category.

Nationwide, 241 elementary schools, 25 middle schools, 48 high schools and 23 K-through-12 schools were selected as Blue Ribbon winners.

Barrington Middle School Principal Dr. Andrew Anderson shared the good news with parents of local students in an email on Tuesday. On Wednesday morning, the Rhode Island Department of Education announced the news.

"In addition to academic achievement, each of these schools has created an exemplary culture of teaching and learning," said Deborah Gist, the commissioner of elementary and secondary education in Rhode Island. "Thanks to visionary leadership, strong community and family engagement, excellent classroom instruction, and a commitment to continuous improvement, these schools demonstrate that all students can learn and achieve at high levels."