Purchased prestige: Is your kid's Blue Ribbon school what you think it is? | Hey, NJ

Hey, NJ! This week, we're talking about "Blue Ribbon" awards.    A recent NJ Spotlight News investigation found that more than a dozen New Jersey schools paid thousands for private “Blue Ribbon” awards resembling the federal academic honor. Critics call the practice deceptive and potentially illegal, especially after a Newark charter school received the designation despite weak academic performance and ongoing operational concerns.   Hosts Maddi Ference and John P. McAlpin are joined by urban education writer Julie O'Connor to discuss her reporting, the state's response and the implications for parents and communities.   Read more: https://www.njspotlightnews.org/2026/05/nj-tax-dollars-spent-on-blue-ribbon-school-awards-that-critics-call-deceptive/    We want to hear from you! What stories should we be covering? What questions should we be asking? Let us know! Send an email to [email protected].