Cheers filled the gymnasium at John P. Freeman Optional School, as the new banner proclaiming the school a 2016 National Blue Ribbon Award winner was unveiled.

A school wide celebration was held Monday November 21, which included a performance from the school band, speeches from district and government leaders and an award ceremony for teachers.

John P. Freeman and Jackson Elementary were both named 2016 Blue Ribbon Schools. Only six schools in Tennessee, and 279 in the nation, were given the coveted honor.

This is the second time John P. Freeman has received the honor. It was named a Blue Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education in 2008.