Four Oconee County elementary schools – Colham Ferry, Dove Creek, High Shoals, and Malcom Bridge – have been chosen as National Blue Ribbon Lighthouse Schools of Excellence.

High Shoals and Malcom Bridge received the honor for the third time, Dove Creek earned its second designation, and Colham Ferry was picked for the first time.

“We are extremely proud of these four schools for this prestigious recognition,” Superintendent Jason Branch said. “This honor reflects the dedication, vision, and commitment to excellence shared by students, educators, and community. Having four schools selected in one year showcases the standards that each school maintains on a consistent basis. We commend these recognitions and applaud the united efforts that led to them.”

Since the program began in 2003, approximately 400 schools have been recognized as National Blue Ribbon Lighthouse Schools of Excellence, and nine are in Oconee County: Colham Ferry, Dove Creek, High Shoals, Malcom Bridge, Oconee County, and Rocky Branch elementary schools; Oconee County Primary; Malcom Bridge Middle; and North Oconee High.

Colham Ferry, Dove Creek, High Shoals, and Malcom Bridge earned the 2025 recognition after successfully completing a rigorous process by the national Blue Ribbon Schools for Excellence organization. The schools excelled in all nine categories of the Blueprint for Excellence:

• Student Focus and Support
• School Organization and Culture
• Challenging Standards and Curriculum
• Active Teaching and Learning
• Technology Integration
• Professional Community
• Leadership and Educational Vitality
• School, Community, and Family Partnerships
• Indicators of Success

The process to become a Blue Ribbon Lighthouse School includes a written application, parent and staff surveys, and an on-site validation and review.

Designation as a Blue Ribbon Lighthouse School lasts for five years, at which time the school will be eligible for revalidation. Blue Ribbon Lighthouse Schools commit to sharing expertise and exemplary practices with other schools on a local, regional, and national level as well as providing mentoring and networking to schools seeking guidance and assistance in school improvement initiatives.