(KCSi-T.V. News) — Gussner Elementary School in Jamestown has been named a 2013 National Blue Ribbon School, by the U.S. Department of Education.

Three North Dakota schools were named, others include schools in Wyndmere, and Edgeley Public Schools

U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan has announced that 286 schools are 2013 National Blue Ribbon Schools.

Founded in 1982, the National Blue Ribbon Schools Program recognizes public and private elementary, middle, and high schools where students perform at very high levels or where significant improvements are being made in students’ academic achievement.

State Superintendent of Public Instruction Kirsten Baesler, says, “Blue Ribbon Schools are selected based on overall academic excellence or progress in improving student academic achievement. I am proud that Edgeley Public School, William S. Gussner Elementary School in Jamestown, and Wyndmere Elementary School are among the schools to be recognized for this prestigious national honor.”