10/20/2026 Message from Board

Vernon Hills High School has been named a 2026 Governor’s Blue Ribbon School,

earning one of the state’s highest recognitions for educational excellence. The school is one of just 24 schools statewide to receive the distinction this year.

“I want to congratulate our 2026 Governor’s Blue Ribbon Schools, who demonstrate what is possible when students, educators, families, and communities come together to support our children in reaching their full potential,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “All across the state, Illinois schools are reaching new heights in school performance, graduation rates, and learning proficiency – a testament to the passion and dedication of our teachers and the power of sustained public investment in education.”

The Illinois Governor’s Blue Ribbon Schools Program recognizes public and nonpublic schools that demonstrate exceptional student outcomes through outstanding academic performance or success in closing achievement gaps. VHHS was recognized as an Exemplary High Performing School.

“Congratulations to our VHHS community on this wonderful and well-deserved honor! I am so proud of our students, staff, and families,” said D128 Interim Superintendent Bhavna Sharma-Lewis. “Your hard work, dedication, and school pride make Vernon Hills High School a special place, and this achievement is truly worth celebrating.”

“Receiving the National Blue Ribbon School Award (2010) and now the Governor's Blue Ribbon School Award is an incredible honor that reflects the tradition of growth and excellence that Vernon Hills High School exhibits daily,” said VHHS Principal Andrew Young. “Congratulations to our students, staff, families, and the entire Vernon Hills community; your voices, perspectives, and shared commitment help create a place where every person is valued and can learn each day. For 27 years, strong relationships, parent involvement, and community partnership have helped us keep growing together. It is a privilege and honor to serve and lead this school community. “

The recognition highlights VHHS as a school that demonstrates consistently strong academic outcomes over time, not just in a single year. Being named a Governor’s Blue Ribbon School is a remarkable achievement and a testament to the hard work of students, educators, staff, and families,” said State Superintendent of Education Tony Sanders. “These schools have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to student success, whether through exceptional academic performance or meaningful progress in closing achievement gaps. Their accomplishments reflect the strength of Illinois education and provide examples of excellence for schools across our state.”

Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) announced recipients on Oct. 20. All 2026 Governor’s Blue Ribbon School recipients will be invited to a special recognition event at the Governor’s Mansion in Springfield this spring. The Governor’s Blue Ribbon Schools Program was established in 2025, after the federal administration abruptly ended the prestigious U.S. Department of Education program. The Governor’s Blue Ribbon Schools Program continues the longstanding tradition of recognizing educational excellence in Illinois schools. Schools receiving the designation serve as models for effective teaching, learning, and student support across the state.