Hendricks Elementary, formerly Austell Intermediate, is one of eight Georgia schools recognized for academic excellence and named as a 2012 Blue Ribbon School.

The No Child Left Behind Blue Ribbon Schools award honors schools for helping students achieve at high levels and making significant progress in closing achievement gaps.

Blue Ribbon Schools are chosen in two categories:

• High performing schools: Schools that scored in the top 10 percent in student achievement.

• Dramatically improved schools: Schools with at least 40 percent economically disadvantaged students that have dramatically improved student achievement to high levels.

Hendricks was recognized as a "dramatically improved school," meaning the improvement students showed over the last five years on state math and reading assessments is among the highest in Georgia.

U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan named the 219 public and 50 private schools earlier this month. These schools will be honored during a recognition ceremony in Washington D.C. in November.

"Our nation has no greater responsibility than helping all children realize their full potential," Duncan said in a statement. "Schools honored with the National Blue Ribbon Schools award are committed to accelerating student achievement and preparing students for success in college and careers.

"Their work reflects the conviction that every child has promise and that education is the surest pathway to a strong, secure future."

Don’t miss any of the local discussions you care about. Subscribe to West Cobb Patch’s free newsletter, like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.