Tester Congratulates Cascade Elementary School for National Blue Ribbon Recognition

Cascade Elementary is one of 325 schools across the nation recognized for academic excellence

U.S. Senator Jon Tester today congratulated Cascade Elementary School in Cascade for being recognized by the U.S. Department of Education for its academic excellence as one of 325 National Blue Ribbon schools across the United States.

“Montana’s public education system is one of the best in the nation, and the work done at Cascade Elementary exemplifies the highest standard of learning for Montana’s schools,” said Tester. “I’m proud of the teachers, students, families, and administrators that worked hard to earn this national recognition, and we can all rest easier knowing that the future of Montana is in good hands.”

The National Blue Ribbon Schools Program affirms the hard work of students, educators, families, and communities in creating safe and welcoming schools where students master challenging content. The award is widely recognized by policymakers and parents as a symbol of exemplary teaching and learning across the nation.

As a former schoolteacher, Tester is a fierce advocate for Montana’s kids, teachers, and schools. He recently secured a commitment from the Department of Education to work with states like Montana to implement their Maintenance of Equity guidance so that schools are able to access the critical American Rescue Plan resources they need to safely return to in-person learning. Tester was the only member of the Montana Delegation to vote in favor of the American Rescue Plan, and has secured $382,019,236 in Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) funds for Montana schools to date as a result.