Frankfort, IL – Lincoln-Way East High School has been named one of only 15 public schools in Illinois to receive the 2025 Governor’s Blue Ribbon Schools Award, recognizing exceptional academic performance and commitment to excellence. The honor was announced this week by the Illinois State Board of Education.
According to the Governor’s Office, the Blue Ribbon Schools Program, launched by Governor J.B. Pritzker, celebrates schools demonstrating high academic achievement and innovation. While the federal National Blue Ribbon Program was discontinued, the Illinois version continues to honor schools originally identified for the distinction.
Lincoln-Way East was recognized for its consistent excellence in student achievement, staff dedication, and strong community partnerships. The school’s administration credited the award to “the combined efforts of teachers, students, and families who continually strive for excellence.”
“This recognition represents years of dedication and hard work,” said Principal Toriano Griggs, noting that the award symbolizes the school’s ongoing culture of achievement. “Excellence at Lincoln-Way East is a mindset, a culture, and a promise we live every day.”
A formal recognition ceremony honoring all 2025 award recipients will take place at the Governor’s Mansion in Springfield during spring 2026.
Lincoln-Way East, part of Lincoln-Way Community High School District 210, serves students across the southwest suburbs and has a long-standing reputation for academic rigor and school spirit.
