Lyons Township High School Honored at Inaugural Governor’s Blue Ribbon Schools Ceremony

Lyons Township High School Honored at Inaugural Governor’s Blue Ribbon Schools Ceremony

Lyons Township High School (LTHS) is proud to announce its selection as one of only 28 schools across the state to receive the inaugural Illinois Governor’s Blue Ribbon Schools Award for exemplary academic performance. This prestigious recognition was launched by Governor JB Pritzker to celebrate outstanding schools in Illinois following the discontinuation of the national program.

LTHS was honored when Superintendent Dr. Brian Waterman was invited by the Governor’s Office to speak at  the inaugural award ceremony held on October 10, 2025 at Glen Oaks Elementary School in North Palos District 117. The event brought together school leaders, teachers, students, and members of the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) to celebrate the first cohort of awardees.

“This honor affirms the dedication of our teachers and staff, the partnership of our families and the community, and most importantly, the excellence and character of our students,” said Dr. Waterman. “We are deeply honored to represent Lyons Township High School and celebrate this achievement alongside so many outstanding schools from across Illinois.”

In addition to the award, both Dr. Waterman and Principal Dr. Jennifer Tyrrell have been invited to attend a special celebration at the Governor’s Mansion in Springfield later this year, recognizing their leadership and the school’s sustained academic excellence.

The Governor’s Blue Ribbon Schools Award was created by Governor Pritzker and will be managed by ISBE to ensure the continued celebration of high-performing schools in Illinois. It recognizes both public and private schools that demonstrate exemplary academic achievement and school improvement.

LTHS extends congratulations to all 2025 award recipients and looks forward to continuing its tradition of educational excellence. Learn more about this award.