The U.S. Department of Commerce named Montgomery County Public Schools one of seven recipients of an award recognizing performance excellence among American organizations.
The Malcolm Balridge National Quality Award, “the nation’s highest presidential honor for performance excellence,” has been awarded to only six school districts, none as large as Montgomery — the Maryland school system is seven times the size as the next largest school district to win the Balridge.
Congress created the Balridge award in 1987 to recognize businesses and organizations for innovation. The education award has been given out since 1999, recognizing school systems that improve student outcomes, engage staff and community, and efficiently use resources.
“This prestigious award shows that across the organization we have built a culture that is singularly focused on producing results for our children. Our community is committed to equipping its children to work in the 21st century, which will strengthen our community for years to come,” said Superintendent Jerry Weast, who plans to retire in June.
