Overview

• The state program replaces the federal National Blue Ribbon Schools initiative scrapped earlier this year as part of a shift to state control.
• Abbott named 28 campuses in the 2025 cohort, including eight in the Houston area.
• The list spans 26 public schools and two private schools, with honorees ranging from HISD’s Carnegie Vanguard to Tyler ISD Early College High School.
• The award cites outstanding academic performance and progress in closing achievement gaps, though the state has not detailed how those factors were measured.
• TEA Commissioner Mike Morath praised the recipients, as other states such as Connecticut roll out similar replacements.