St. Michael School Recognized as a Blue Ribbon School

The entire community of St. Michael School in Orland Park has been celebrating since the U.S. Department of Education named the 2013 National Blue Ribbon Schools on September 24. St. Michael was named in the Exemplary High Performing category and joins 49 other private schools in the nation to be awarded this designation for 2013.  The U.S. Department of Education will honor 286 schools at a recognition ceremony in November in Washington, D.C.

In order to be eligible to apply for Blue Ribbon status, private schools must be nominated by the Council for American Private Education (CAPE).  Lead by Mrs. Kathleen Siberz, a group of teachers and staff worked for over a year to complete the application and gather the required documents for submission.

According to CAPE, only 50 private schools in the nation are awarded this designation each year. The Blue Ribbon award is largely based on student’s test scores, in addition to a number of essay responses. Principal, Bernadette Cuttone, relied heavily on seasoned faculty, such as Siberz to lead the efforts of the application process. “The Blue Ribbon Award recognizes faculty and staff who have used state-of-the-art technology, curriculum, and a wealth of activities to help our students reach their highest potential. St. Michael School has always exemplified excellence and success for all of our students,”  says Siberz.

A substantial amount of the application was completed during the first half of the 2012-13 school year, and Siberz is thrilled that this project has come to fruition. “It is an affirmation of the support of families and parish to build a community of faith, hope and love," she comments.

Principal Cuttone is beaming with pride. “It is a wonderful and joyous time for St. Michael School Community. There is a celebratory atmosphere in the school.” Cuttone continues, “That is the best part of receiving this award...to see and hear the children who are so proud that they attend a Blue Ribbon School...a school of excellence!”

For more information on St. Michael School’s Blue Ribbon application profile visit http://www.nationalblueribbonschools.com/summarydocs/2013/il/st-michael-school-13pv108.html