Please check the link: http://ed.gov/programs/nclbbrs/eligibility.html. Blue Ribbon schools do not pay to get the award. Read. Get better informed. The community cannot put down an entire school district, due to the ignorance of a few disgruntled parents. If you have a concern, go to a board meeting and let your voice be heard. Every school district in the country has difficulties and problems. Maybe we just don't hear about it as often in the news. Usually the parents complaining are the parents of a few students who have behavior problems, and don't think the rules should apply to them.