The School District of Lancaster has earned the Great Pennsylvania Schools designation, a statewide recognition of the district’s academic opportunities, community connections, student supports and financial practices.
SDoL received the Great Pennsylvania Schools Ribbon in August 2026 following an application and review process. The designation will remain in effect through December 2029.
The Great Pennsylvania Schools program recognizes public school districts across the Commonwealth that meet criteria in four areas: academic rigor, a community-centered approach, resilience and financial health. The review considers districts of different sizes and communities, including urban, suburban and rural school systems serving students from a wide range of backgrounds.
“We know the work happening in our schools every day, and it means something to have that work recognized at the state level,” Superintendent Dr. Keith Miles said. “Our students are learning and taking on new challenges, our staff care deeply about helping them succeed, and our families and community partners continue to stand with us. This designation belongs to all of them.”
The academic review confirmed that 100% of SDoL teachers are certified and that students have access to a range of challenging programs. Those opportunities include International Baccalaureate and Advanced Placement courses, dual enrollment, gifted education, career and technical education, and JROTC.
The program also considers the role schools play within their communities. Districts must demonstrate innovative programming, provide academic and extracurricular opportunities, and regularly celebrate the work of students and staff.
For SDoL, that work includes building stronger relationships with families, collaborating with community organizations and creating schools where students feel welcomed and supported. Those priorities are central to the district’s 2024-2029 Strategic Plan and its focus on academic excellence, belonging, family and community engagement, and strong organizational practices.
The remaining areas examine how districts prepare for challenges and manage public resources. SDoL demonstrated that it maintains emergency preparedness plans and provides mental health supports for students. The financial review included the district’s annual independent audit, public budget process and compliance with state requirements for purchasing, bids and quotations.
The designation offers an opportunity to recognize the people behind that work. Students continue to pursue new opportunities, staff support them inside and outside the classroom, families remain active partners, and local organizations help schools respond to the needs of the community.
SDoL will carry the Great Pennsylvania Schools Ribbon through 2029 while continuing its work to raise student achievement, improve attendance and graduation outcomes, strengthen family partnerships and help every learner find success and belonging.