Dove Creek Middle School has been named a 2026 Blue Ribbon Lighthouse School by Blue Ribbon Schools of Excellence (BRSE), earning national recognition for its commitment to student success and continuous school improvement. 

The designation follows a comprehensive assessment that included stakeholder surveys, interviews, and a two-day on-site review. Dove Creek Middle School demonstrated outstanding achievement across all nine performance areas that characterize high-performing schools:

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

Through its review, the BRSE Awards Committee also recognized Dove Creek Middle School’s deeply embedded culture of continuous growth, reflection, and improvement.

“We are honored to receive this recognition, which belongs to our entire school community,” said Principal Mike Eddy. “Our teachers and staff work each day to challenge, encourage, and support our students, and we are grateful for the partnership of our families in helping our students succeed. This process gave us an opportunity to celebrate our strengths and continue identifying ways to provide the best possible learning experience for all students.”

The honor marks the first time Dove Creek Middle School has received the Blue Ribbon Lighthouse School designation and comes in the school’s first year of eligibility. 

“This recognition reflects the dedication of Dove Creek’s teachers, staff, and leaders to creating an environment where every student can succeed,” said Superintendent Melissa Butler. “We are proud of the school’s commitment to strong instruction, meaningful relationships, and continuous improvement, and we appreciate the students and families who help make this work possible.”

The Blue Ribbon Lighthouse School designation lasts for five years, after which the school is eligible for renewal. Schools receiving the designation commit to sharing exemplary practices with other schools at the local, regional, and national levels and providing mentoring and networking to support school improvement.

Dove Creek Middle School will be honored alongside other Lighthouse Schools from across the nation at the Blue Ribbon Schools Conference awards brunch on December 3, 2026, in Orlando, Florida.