Bolingbrook Elementary School Earns Governor's Blue Ribbon Award

BOLINGBROOK, IL — A Bolingbrook elementary school has been named one of the 2026 Governor's Blue Ribbon Schools, according to a news release from Gov. JB Pritzker's office.

Builta Elementary School, which is part of Indian Prairie School District 204, earned recognition for its high-performing academic achievements.

"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," Pritzker said in the announcement.

Indian Prairie School District 204 Superintendent, Dr. John Price, commended the hard work and dedication of Wayne Builta staff and students for earning this recognition.

“We celebrate Wayne Builta Elementary School on this extraordinary achievement,” Price said in a news release. “This achievement is not the result of one person or one year. Rather, it is a culmination of years of hard work from the staff, and also celebrates the hard work of the students and their families.”

Now in its second year, the state program follows the model of the federal Blue Ribbon Schools program. Illinois established its version last year after the Trump administration canceled the U.S. Department of Education’s national program, according to the governor's office.

"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," State Superintendent of Education Tony Sanders said in the release. "These schools have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to student success, whether through exceptional academic performance or meaningful progress in closing achievement gaps."

This year's honorees include 16 public schools and eight nonpublic schools representing urban, suburban and rural communities. Sixteen received high-performing recognition, while eight were honored for closing achievement gaps.