MADISON — Two Wisconsin schools are among the 63 U.S. schools named as 2025 National ESEA Distinguished Schools. Banting Elementary School (School District of Waukesha) and the Hmong American Peace Academy (a public charter school in Milwaukee Public Schools) received the recognition for demonstrating extraordinary success in improving student achievement.
“I am incredibly proud of these schools for earning national recognition for their exceptional academic achievement and student growth,” State Superintendent Dr. Jill Underly said. “Their success reflects the power of dedicated educators, strong family and community partnerships, and a shared commitment to putting students first. This well-deserved honor highlights the impact of intentional, student-centered work and the resilience of these school communities.”
The National Association of ESEA State Program Administrators — formerly the National Title I Association — has recognized exemplary federally funded schools through the National ESEA Distinguished Schools program since 1996. The program celebrates schools nationwide that have made significant progress by effectively utilizing ESEA federal funds to enhance student education outcomes.
Each year, the program highlights the success of schools in one of three categories:
- Category 1: Exceptional student performance and academic growth
- Category 2: Closing the achievement gap between student groups
- Category 3: Excellence in serving special populations of students (e.g. homeless, migrant, English learners, etc.)
Both Wisconsin schools were recognized in Category 1. They will be honored during the 2026 National ESEA Conference, taking place from Feb. 10-12, 2026, in Denver, CO.
Banting Elementary School and the Hmong American Peace Academy join a handful of other Wisconsin schools receiving the honor in recent years: Iron River Elementary School (School District of Maple – 2019, Category 1), Milwaukee Excellence Charter School (MPS – 2019, Category 2), Parkside School (Wautoma Area School District – 2023, Category 3), James Madison Elementary School (Sheboygan Area School District – 2024, Category 3), and Luther Elementary School (School District of Fort Atkinson – 2024, Category 3).
More information about the National ESEA Distinguished Schools program, including the full list of 2025 honorees, is available on the ESEA Network website.
