Originally Published: Oct. 7, 2025

The Empower College and Career Center has been named a Blue Ribbon Schools of Excellence Lighthouse School, the highest honor bestowed upon the organization. 

The Empower College and Career Center met the required criteria in nine performance areas of high performing schools required for the prestigious recognition. Empower was recognized for its student focus and support; school organization and culture; challenging standard and curriculum; active teaching and learning; technology and integration; professional community; leadership and education vitality; school, family and community partnerships; and indicators of success.

The Empower College and Career Center becomes the sixth school within the Jackson County School System to earn the prestigious honor, joining East Jackson Elementary School, Maysville Elementary School, East Jackson High School, West Jackson Middle School and South Jackson Elementary School.

The Blue Ribbon Lighthouse certification lasts for five years for Empower, during which time it will have the opportunity to collaborate on exemplary practices with other schools on a local, regional and national level, as well as providing mentoring and networking to schools actively seeking guidance and assistance on improvement initiatives