On September 28, 2017, U.S. Education Secretary Betsy DeVos, announced the 2017 National Blue Ribbon Schools. Arlene Hein Elementary was one of 23 schools in California selected for this honor. This coveted award honors public and private elementary, middle, and high schools where students achieve high learning standards or are making notable improvements in closing the achievement gap. Arlene Hein is among 342 schools selected nationally by the U.S. Department of Education. In its 35-year history, the National Blue Ribbon Schools Program has presented this award to more than 8,500 schools.