Carmel, Ind. — Carmel Clay Schools is proud to announce that Creekside Middle School has been named one of Indiana’s inaugural Blue Ribbon Schools by the Indiana Department of Education (IDOE). Creekside is one of only 11 schools across the state to receive this newly established designation, recognizing schools for exceptional academic achievement and a strong commitment to student success.

The Indiana Blue Ribbon Schools program recognizes schools that demonstrate exemplary academic performance and innovative approaches to meeting the needs of their students. These schools are celebrated as models of educational leadership and impact for communities across the state.

“Creekside’s recognition as one of Indiana’s first Blue Ribbon Schools is a direct reflection of our students’ effort and our staff’s dedication,” said Steven Pelych, principal of Creekside Middle School. “Our teachers, families, and students work together every day to build a supportive, high-achieving environment where everyone feels valued and encouraged to grow. I’m so proud of our Creekside community.”

“As a district, we are incredibly proud of Creekside Middle School for this well-deserved honor,” said Dr. Thomas Oestreich, superintendent of Carmel Clay Schools. “This recognition reflects the collaborative spirit that defines our schools—educators, students, and families all working together to ensure success. Creekside continues to build on the district’s tradition of excellence, and this state recognition is a wonderful acknowledgment of that work.”

Creekside Middle School will be formally recognized at the Educational Excellence Awards gala on November 21 in Indianapolis.

This state-level recognition builds on a strong tradition of excellence in Carmel Clay Schools. The National Blue Ribbon School award, once presented by the U.S. Department of Education, has been discontinued. Prior to this change, several CCS schools earned the prestigious national distinction for their academic excellence and success in closing achievement gaps.

Those schools include:

• Carmel High School
• Carmel Middle School
• Clay Middle School
• College Wood Elementary School
• Creekside Middle School
• Mohawk Trails Elementary School
• Smoky Row Elementary School
• West Clay Elementary School