MERIDEN, Conn. (WTNH) — A Meriden elementary school is now part of an elite group.
On Friday morning, U.S. Education Secretary Miguel Cardona elevated Israel Putnam School to a National Blue Ribbon School. The school’s choir put on a show to welcome Cardona back, but he was the one singing the school’s praises.
“You know the Oscars? The award you get when you’re a great actor?” Cardona said. “Well, you got the Oscars for schools.”
The recognition of being a National Blue Ribbon School goes to schools that excel in academic performance and closing the achievement gap. There are three of them in Connecticut, and only 356 in the country.
“I love Putnam, because the teachers are the best and try to make the school fun,” student Leiliana Castro said.
It is also the school where Cardona started his education career teaching fourth grade.
Superintendent Mark Benigni praised the current teachers.
“Your dedication and commitment to your students and their success deserves our praise, and today’s recognition,” Benigni said.
Cardona remembered that when he first taught there, he put up on his bulletin board a sign that read, “Let the Journey Begin.” He meant it for his students, but his own journey is about to take a turn. He only has a couple more weeks left as secretary of education.
President-elect Donald Trump nominated Connecticut’s own Linda McMahon to succeed Cardona. Trump seems to be encouraging his cabinet to make big changes to their departments.
“I never bet against public schools,” Cardona said. “I do recognize some of the policies that are being promoted would damage public education.”
Cardona said he does not think that will actually happen. As for what he will do next, if he knows, he would not give it away.
“Five years ago, if you had asked me, ‘Where are you going to be?’ I’d say I’d be working in Meriden,” he said. “So, I’m smart enough now not to think I know what the next step is, but just follow god’s path for me.”
Which, he said, will mean continuing to serve the public.
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