This is the second time Thomas Street had received Blue Ribbon recognition, with the first earned during the 1989-90 school year.

"I got on the intercom to announce to the students," Dr. Janie Conway said (Principal during this school year). "I told them we had just received word from Congressman (Roger) Wicker's office. You could hear shouts going up all the way down the hall. It's definitely an air of celebration and appreciation for bringing the hard work from everyone together."

The Tupelo Public School District made history Thursday by having three elementaries named Blue Ribbon Schools by the U.S. Department of Education.

Church Street, Rankin and Thomas Street - the only schools in Tupelo to apply for the award this year - were all named Blue Ribbon Schools. It was the first time in Mississippi three schools from the same district were recognized in the same year.

The program recognizes schools that excel in academic leadership, teaching, teacher development and curriculum. Schools must have high levels of parental involvement, community support, student achievement and a strong safety and discipline program.