St. Francis of Assisi School in the Catholic Diocese of Arlington Recognized as Exemplary High Performing National Blue Ribbon School for 2019

National Blue Ribbon Award Highlights Achievement of Students, Educators and Families

ARLINGTON, VA – St. Francis of Assisi School, grades pre-K through eighth, in the Catholic Diocese of Arlington is being recognized as an Exemplary High Performing National Blue Ribbon School for 2019 by the U.S. Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos. The award highlights the achievement of the students, educators, families and larger community at St. Francis of Assisi. Only 50 non-public schools are recognized annually.

Bishop Michael F. Burbidge, Catholic Diocese of Arlington said, “I am very proud to hear that St. Francis of Assisi Catholic School has been recognized as a National Blue Ribbon School. This award acknowledges the quality of education at St. Francis of Assisi and demonstrates the collaborative efforts of parents and catholic educators in the academic and faith formation of our students. I commend and thank the entire St. Francis of Assisi school community for what they have accomplished and ask God to continue to bless all their endeavors.”

“We are thrilled to learn of St Francis of Assisi School’s selection as a Blue Ribbon school,” added Dr. Joseph Vorbach, Superintendent, Catholic Schools of the Diocese of Arlington. “This national recognition by the U.S. Department of Education is an acknowledgment of the mission-focused commitment to every student that is a hallmark of the St. Francis of Assisi school community.” 

Begun in 1982, the National Blue Ribbon Schools Program Award recognizes private and public elementary, middle and high schools at which students achieve high learning standards or are making notable improvements in closing the achievement gap.  

"We recognize and honor your important work in preparing students for successful careers and meaningful lives," said U.S. Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos in a video message to the honorees. "As a National Blue Ribbon School, your school demonstrates what is possible when committed educators hold all students and staff to high standards and create vibrant, innovative cultures of teaching and learning."

Dr. Vorbach and Dr. Tricia Barber, Principal, St. Francis of Assisi School, will be presented with the National Blue Ribbon School plaque and flag as symbols of the school’s achievement on November 15, 2019 at the Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center in Fort Washington, MD. 

For more information on schools in the Catholic Diocese of Arlington, click here.

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