CLIFTON, VA—Saint Andrew the Apostle Catholic School, a Pre-K through 8th grade school administered by the Catholic Diocese of Arlington, has been recognized by the U.S. Department of Education as a National Blue Ribbon School.
Saint Andrew the Apostle Catholic School is in Fairfax County and has an enrollment of 216. It was the only Catholic school in the state of Virginia to be recognized and one of only 40 non-public schools nationally who were awarded the distinction in 2024. Saint Andrew’s recognition is in the Extemporary High Performing Schools category.
“I am delighted Saint Andrew the Apostle School has been recognized as a National Blue Ribbon School,” said Bishop Michael F. Burbidge. “This achievement is the result of strong leadership and the dedication of so many. St. Andrew the Apostle is a truly Catholic community that equips students in developing their God-given gifts, encourages students to develop their relationship with Jesus Christ, and educates students so that they may offer their lives as gifts to others.”
There were eight schools in Virginia awarded the designation. In total, 356 schools received the recognition in 2024.
“The 2024 National Blue Ribbon Schools are raising the bar for our nation’s students, serving as models for effective teaching and intentional collaboration in their schools and communities. As we celebrate their achievements, let us look to these schools for inspiration as we champion education as the foundation of a brighter future for every child,” U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona said in a statement accompanying the announcement.
Principal Mary Baldwin said she was proud of the award and was excited to share the news with the Saint Andrew community.
“This recognition acknowledges the hard work, dedication, and commitment of our faculty, staff, and school families to provide the best possible education for our students. It shows that Catholic schools can accomplish great things,” Baldwin said.
Over the years, more than 60% of diocesan schools have been awarded this designation.
“Saint Andrew the Apostle School is a gem of a Catholic school, and I am so happy to see them receive this hard-earned recognition. The administration, together with a child’s first teacher, his or her parents, has worked tirelessly to provide each and every student a phenomenal education,” said Dr. Joseph E. Vorbach III, superintendent of schools for the Catholic Diocese of Arlington.
For more information about Saint Andrew the Apostle Catholic School, please visit their website.
For more information on the Catholic schools in the Diocese of Arlington, please click here.
