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St. Cecilia Catholic School named National Blue Ribbon School, only new NKY designation this year


St. Cecilia Catholic School in Independence has been named a National Blue Ribbon School, the only new NKY school added to the list this year.

U.S. Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos recognized 349 schools as National Blue Ribbon Schools for 2018. The recognition is based on a school’s overall academic performance or progress in closing achievement gaps among student subgroups.


“I’m pleased to celebrate with you as St. Cecilia Catholic School is named a National Blue Ribbon School,” said U.S. Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos in a video message to the honorees. 

“We recognize and honor your important work in preparing students for successful careers and meaningful lives. Congratulations on your students’ accomplishments and for your extraordinary commitment to meeting their unique needs.”

The coveted National Blue Ribbon Schools award affirms the hard work of educators, families and communities in creating safe and welcoming schools where students master challenging and engaging content. 

“This is truly a great honor,” said Principal Rob Detzel. “This achievement has come to fruition because of the hard work and dedication of so many wonderful people that have done so much for this school and its community. We are extremely blessed to have been selected as a National Blue Ribbon School.”


Now in its 36th year, the National Blue Ribbon Schools Program has bestowed recognition on more than 8,800 schools. On November 7-8, the Secretary and the Department of Education will celebrate with 300 public and 49 private school honorees at an awards ceremony in Washington, D.C.


St. Cecilia Catholic School was named as an Exemplary High Performing School among the state’s highest performing schools, as measured by state assessments or nationally normed tests.

Up to 420 schools may be nominated each year. The Department invites National Blue Ribbon School nominations from the top education official in all states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, the Department of Defense Education Activity and the Bureau of Indian Education.

Private schools are nominated by The Council for American Private Education (CAPE).


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