2014 National Blue Ribbon School

Prince of Peace Catholic School Earns National Blue Ribbon Status

The school is one of only 50 private schools to be award this prestigious honor

Lake Villa, IL — October 1, 2014 — U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan recognized Prince of Peace Catholic School, along with 336 other schools, as a National Blue Ribbon School for 2014 based on overall academic excellence or progress in closing achievement gaps among student subgroups. Prince of Peace received the award for being an “Exemplary High-Performing School,” demonstrating that all students can achieve to high levels.

In working to achieve recognition as a Blue Ribbon School, Prince of Peace adjusted some areas of its educational strategy, including developing and implementing a foreign language program for all students K-8, improving Terra Nova standardized testing scores, using scores from previous years to locate curriculum weaknesses and adjust teaching methods accordingly, and realigning curriculum to state standards. Additionally, the school added interactive whiteboards that the teachers incorporated into their curriculum, and parental fundraising helped acquire classroom Chrome books, embedding technology into both teaching and learning. Students also participated by being held to high expectations – both academic and spiritual. They accepted challenges and utilized their potential, and continue to do so daily. Accelerated math classes were made available for students in grades 5-8, and all 8^th grade students now complete Algebra 1 by graduation.

“Receiving this award is a wonderful reinforcement for our school and parish community,” said Principal Bonnie Brown. “Our faculty, staff and teachers work hard every day to make Prince of Peace a safe place for our students to learn and to thrive. We are proud to be recognized as a National Blue Ribbon School.”

The Department will honor 287 public and 50 private schools at a recognition ceremony in November. In its 32-year history, the National Blue Ribbon Schools Program has bestowed this coveted award on just fewer than 7,900 of America’s schools.

“These great schools are fulfilling the promise of American education — that all students, no matter their name or zip code, can flourish when schools provide safe, creative and challenging learning environments,” Secretary Duncan said. “National Blue Ribbon Schools are models of consistent excellence and a resource for other schools and districts. We celebrate them for their tireless effort and boundless creativity in reaching and teaching every student.”

The award affirms the hard work of students, educators, families and communities in creating safe and welcoming schools where students master challenging content.