Blue Ribbon School recognition is awarded by the U.S. Department of Education to schools throughout the nation that are committed to achievement and to ensuring that students learn and succeed. On September 9, 2010, Secretary of Education Arne Duncan announced that Orchard Avenue Elementary School was one of 304 schools nationwide to receive this award.

The Grand Junction Forum, a Chamber committee charged with taking the long view on building on community assets, and leadership of Mesa County Valley School District 51 has forged a partnership to build a world class education system in the Grand Valley. A major variable between education in the United States and elsewhere is the amount of time students spend in the learning environment.

School District 51 has announced its policy for determining eligibility of children who may receive free or reduced price meals under the National School Lunch and School Breakfast Programs. Call 254-5181 with questions.