A Berrien County elementary school is taking pride in a very prestigious award.
Howard-Ellis Elementary in Niles is one of only a handful of Michigan schools to be named a "blue-ribbon" school.
The Michigan Department of Education made the announcement Thursday night.
It named Howard-Ellis as one of 18 schools to take home the honor.
Niles superintendent Doug Law says it is a great moment not only for the school but for Niles Community Schools.
A community celebration is planned for the spring.