Students at Marengo Academy and Demopolis High School have a lot to be proud of — mostly their teachers and administrators. Both schools were named Blue Ribbon Schools by their perspective state school associations.

Blue Ribbon Schools exemplify excellence in teaching, student performance, school life and school and community interaction. To be considered for the award, each school must be accredited by AISA or AHSA, all professional staff must meet professional criteria and the school’s SAT scores must meet or exceed the national average.

Also, each school must have students who participate in extracurricular opportunities in academics as well as athletics and arts. Students must also be involved in community service projects.

The schools in Demopolis and Marengo County have consistently beaten the odds and proven they are worthy of being regarded as some of the best in the state.

This could not be possible, however, without the tremendous efforts made by everyone involved, from the superintendent and school board to the administrators, teachers, students parents and overall community.

We have a lot to be proud of in Marengo County. Our schools top the list.