Federal education officials on Tuesday named 12 Georgia schools — including seven in metro Atlanta — as 2009 National Blue Ribbon Schools.

The government program honors public and private elementary, middle and high schools that show impressive academic growth and achievement. This year, the U.S. Department of Education recognized 314 schools nationwide.

Among those locally earning the honor:

● Private schools including Holy Spirit Preparatory School in Atlanta. Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic School in DeKalb County and Holy Redeemer Catholic School in Johns Creek.

● Carter G. Woodson Elementary in the Atlanta city system.

● The DeKalb School of the Arts in DeKalb County.

● Hightower Trail Middle School in Cobb County.

● Honey Creek Elementary School in Rockdale County.

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In this file photo from October 2024, Atlanta Braves outfielder Jorge Soler and teammates react after losing to the San Diego Padres 5-4 in San Diego. The Braves and Soler, who now plays for the Los Angeles Angels, face a lawsuit by a fan injured at a 2021 World Series game at Truist Park in Atlanta. (Jason Getz/AJC)

Credit: Jason.Getz@ajc.com