U.S. Secretary of Education, Arne Duncan, announced today that St. Francis Xavier School in La Grange has been recognized as a 2013 National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence. Saint Francis Xavier was one of only 50 private schools nationwide to receive this prestigious award. Of the nearly 135,000 public and private schools in the United States, fewer than 7,500 have received the honor since the Blue Ribbon program began in 1982.
The national award selection process involves an extensive written nomination that documents student test scores over the past five years, innovative teaching and learning techniques at the school, teacher professional development activities, new technology practices to support instruction and the school’s student leadership programs.
“Excellence in education matters and we should honor the schools that are leading the way to prepare students for success in college and careers,” said Duncan. Saint Francis Xavier principal Deb Rodde added “I couldn’t be more proud of our hardworking, dedicated teachers and their commitment every day to providing the best educational experience to our students.” Rodde will attend the official awards ceremony in Washington D.C. on November 18 - 19 where she will receive a Blue Ribbon status plaque and flag from Duncan. The school will also host a variety of events to celebrate this achievement including a recognition ceremony with local dignitaries.St. Francis Xavier Parish School prides itself on providing its 598 children from preschool through 8th grade with a strong academic foundation while offering a nurturing environment to continue to develop their faith and instill the need to serve others within our community. The curriculum of St. Francis Xavier School meets and exceeds the requirements set forth by both the State of Illinois and the Archdiocese of Chicago's Office of Catholic Education. Saint Francis Xavier's service program has been nationally recognized for excellence. For more information, visit the school’s website at www.sfx-lg.org.
