KEARNEY, Neb. — Students, staff and community leaders came together Thursday to celebrate Park Elementary’s recognition as a National Blue Ribbon School, which is one of the highest honors a school can receive from the U.S. Department of Education.

The event featured special snacks, extra recess, and bounce houses for students, along with appearances from Nebraska Deputy Commissioner of Education Jane Stavem and Kearney Mayor Jonathan Nikkila, who congratulated the school for its achievement.

Stavem told students that the award reflects the effort of everyone involved — from teachers and families to the wider Kearney community, saying, “This just doesn’t happen. It’s because everybody shows up every single day and does the right thing.”

Mayor Nikkila echoed that message, calling the students “the future of the community” and saying Park’s success shows what can happen when everyone works together.

Park Elementary earned the Blue Ribbon distinction earlier this month for its academic performance and student growth.

The U.S. Department of Education says the award celebrates schools where students reach high levels of achievement through collaboration and community support.

The school also received an official Blue Ribbon certificate and banner, which will be displayed inside the building.

Park Elementary will be formally recognized at a ceremony in Washington, D.C., later this year.