The U.S. Department of Education has named St. Andrew the Apostle Catholic School in Clifton a National Blue Ribbon Award winner, the only Catholic school in the diocese to garner the honor this year.
“This accolade is a testament to our commitment to academic excellence, innovative teaching, and the hard work of our dedicated students, teachers, staff, and school parents,” said Mary Baldwin, principal.
The more than 200 students at the elementary school were to be told about the award the afternoon of Sept. 24. No date has been set as of yet for a Blue Ribbon celebration.
Bishop Michael F. Burbidge said he is delighted about the award. “This achievement is the result of strong leadership and the dedication of so many,” he said. “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.”
Baldwin said they are thrilled that they won the prestigious award. “Together, we have created a nurturing environment where every student can thrive and succeed while learning and living our Catholic faith.”
Joseph E. Vorbach, diocesan superintendent of schools, called St. Andrew “a gem of a Catholic school.”
“I am so happy to see them receive this hard-earned recognition,” he said.
The Clifton school was among eight schools awarded in Virginia and 356 schools in total this year.
According to the Arlington diocese, more than 60 percent of diocesan schools have received this designation.
