The St. Mark School community in Vienna gathered to celebrate its most recent Blue Ribbon award with Bishop Michael F. Burbidge Feb. 27.
During a special Mass, Bishop Burbidge invited students to complete the sentence, “St. Mark Catholic School is great because ______.” Hands quickly filled the air, and a sixth grade student responded enthusiastically, “The faith!”
His answer drew smiles from all and underscored what Kimberly Parker, principal, describes as the foundation of the school’s identity. Both faculty and administrators emphasize that the school’s Catholic mission is central to its success. They note that faith is not simply an aspect of the school’s identity, but the guiding principle behind its academic programs, community life and service to students.
As Bishop Burbidge continued his visit, he posed the same question to students in various classrooms. Later, at a celebratory luncheon with teachers and staff, Bishop Burbidge shared that many students also cited the school’s strong sense of community as a defining strength. Students expressed that they feel like they are part of a family at St. Mark.
St. Mark has earned a rare distinction, receiving national recognition twice as a Blue Ribbon School of Excellence, once by the U.S. Department of Education and once by the Council for American Private Education. In addition to its two Blue Ribbon honors, the school has also been named an Outstanding School by Porto Charities, the nonprofit that advocates on behalf of individuals with intellectual disabilities, highlighting both the school’s academic strength and commitment to inclusive education.
Bishop Burbidge commended the faculty and staff for fostering an environment where students feel loved, safe and protected. He emphasized that such a foundation enables children to grow not only academically, but also socially and spiritually. Parker, St. Mark’s principal, said that the celebration served as both a recognition of past accomplishments and a reaffirmation of the school’s mission: to provide an outstanding Catholic education rooted in faith, academic excellence and a caring community.
