Radley Elementary in East Helena is the only school in the state to earn Blue Ribbon status and will be presented with the award during a ceremony today.

"It is a great honor," Radley Principal Keith Obert said on Sunday.

The No Child Left Behind Blue Ribbon Schools Program honors public and private K-12 schools that are either academically superior in their states or that demonstrate dramatic gains in student achievement.

It requires schools to meet either of two assessment criteria and recognizes schools that have at least 40 percent of their students from disadvantaged background that dramatically improve student performance in accordance with state assessment systems.

This is determined through student scores on a standardized test, called the Montana Comprehensive Assessment System. More than 85 percent of Radley students tested at proficient to advanced in reading and math, and Obert said that score continues to improve by a few percent year after year.

Obert and third-grade teacher Kate Dartman traveled to Washington D.C. last week for the national Blue Ribbon ceremony.

Obert said he was proud that the students and staff were recognized on a national level.

The entire student body will attend the ceremony today, at which time State Superintendent Linda McCulloch will present the award.

Afterwards, students, staff and visitors will celebrate with ice cream.

Reporter Alana Listoe: 447-4081 or alana.listoe@helenair.com.