Hassan Elementary Recognized as a Blue Ribbon School at MDE Event 

The Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) recently recognized eight outstanding schools for excelling in academic performance and making significant strides in closing achievement gaps. State Commissioner Willie Jett honored the schools this week at the Minnesota Elementary School Principals Association (MESPA) Institute.

While these eight schools were originally nominated by the state for the 2025 National Blue Ribbon Schools award, the U.S. Department of Education discontinued the federal program this academic year. In response, Minnesota is moving forward with its own state-level recognition to ensure these schools are celebrated for the elite performance that earned them their original nominations. 

“These eight schools are doing outstanding work and deserve recognition. Other schools look up to Blue Ribbon Schools for strategies to improve performance and better serve all students,” said Commissioner Willie Jett. “In Minnesota we believe that every student deserves access to a high-quality education, and these schools are embodying that mission. They are an example of what educators can achieve when they make their school a place where all students can learn, grow, and thrive.” 

Hassan is being honored as both an Exemplary High Performing and Exemplary Achievement Gap Closing School, which is rare, according to MDE. This means Hassan ranks not only among the highest-performing schools in the state, but also leads in closing achievement gaps, reflecting both academic excellence and a commitment to ensuring all students are being served with a high-quality education.

Below is this year’s complete list of honorees: 

Exemplary High Performing Schools 

• Dakota Hills Middle School, Rosemount-Apple Valley-Eagan School District
• Pike Lake Elementary, Proctor Public Schools   

Exemplary Achievement Gap Closing Schools 

• Browns Valley Elementary School, Browns Valley School District 
• Kennedy Elementary School, Mankato Public School District 

Exemplary High Performing and Exemplary Achievement Gap Closing Schools 

• Forest Hills Elementary School, Eden Prairie Public Schools
• Hassan Elementary, Elk River Public School District  
• Northfield Middle School, Northfield Public School District
• Valley Crossing Elementary School, South Washington County Schools 

“Earning the Blue Ribbon recognition is never the result of one person’s work—it’s the result of a shared vision. From our amazing educators to the families supporting learning at home, this award celebrates the powerful synergy that defines Hassan Elementary.” said Assistant Superintendent Jamie Nord. “To have three schools recognized as National Blue Ribbon Schools in a single decade—Parker in 2016, Twin Lakes in 2021, and now Hassan, is an incredible achievement. We are so proud of the work being done here at Hassan, and across all ISD 728 schools, to support every learner.”

“We are thrilled to celebrate the exceptional work happening at Hassan Elementary,” said Superintendent Andy Almos. “This award highlights why ISD 728 is such a remarkable place to live and learn. The Hassan team embodies our mission through their daily dedication to students. Achieving this level of national recognition is a wonderful honor for our entire district.”

“This award speaks to the dedication and strength of the staff here at Hassan,” said Dr. Tony Alberts, Principal. “Our educators genuinely care about every student and work tirelessly to help them succeed. That shared commitment, to our students and to one another, is what defines our school community.”