Hillrise Elementary is among 7 Nebraska schools recently identified as 2025 Blue Ribbon Schools. The Blue Ribbon award recognizes schools across Nebraska for their exemplary high-performance standards and closing achievement gaps, and Hillrise joins previous EPS recipients Elkhorn Middle School (2019), Sagewood Elementary (2021), and Elkhorn Grandview Middle School (2024) as among those having achieved this recognition.
Melissa Mehlmann, Hillrise Elementary principal, noted that the Blue Ribbon Award reflects the culture of academic excellence that defines Hillrise Elementary. “This recognition highlights our commitment to high standards, effective teaching, and continuous improvement through data-driven instruction. At Hillrise, collaboration among staff, students, and families supports every child’s success”, Mehlmann stated. “This award is a celebration of the hard work and commitment of the Hillrise school community!” she concluded.
“This Blue Ribbon recognition is a reflection of the work of every Hillrise Elementary student and staff member, and their dedication to setting and reaching high expectations,” stated Dr. Bary Habrock, EPS Superintendent. “It is also a celebration of how our students and staff consistently meet the standards of the culture of excellence that defines Elkhorn Public Schools. Thank you to everyone—students, staff, and families alike—for your unwavering commitment to ensuring Elkhorn is a community where all individuals are empowered to thrive.”
To read the full release as shared by the Nebraska Department of Education, please click here.
