Brian Waterman at the Blue Ribbon Schools ceremony. (Supplied photo)

Lyons Township High School was one of only 28 schools statewide to receive the inaugural Illinois Governor’s Blue Ribbon Schools Award for exemplary academic performance. 

This prestigious recognition was launched by Governor J.B. Pritzker to celebrate outstanding Illinois schools after the national program was discontinued.

Brian Waterman and Principal Jennifer Tyrrell with Gov. JB Pritzker. (Supplied photo)

LTHS was honored when Superintendent Dr. Brian Waterman was invited by the Governor’s Office to speak at the inaugural award ceremony on October 10 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 to celebrate the first cohort of awardees.

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

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

In addition to the award, both 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.

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