Lake Orion Community Schools issued the following announcement on Sept 21.
Lake Orion Community Schools is proud to announce Webber Elementary School was named a 2021 National Blue Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education.
The National Blue Ribbon Schools Program recognizes public and private elementary, middle, and high schools based on their overall academic excellence or their progress in closing achievement gaps among student subgroups. Every year the U.S. Department of Education seeks out and celebrates great American schools, schools demonstrating that all students can achieve to high levels. This year, Webber is one of 302 recognized public schools nationally and one of 12 elementaries in the state of Michigan.
“I am so proud of the dedication that our students, staff, and parents continue to show every year," said Jennifer Goethals, now in her fifth year as Webber’s principal. "We have had a lot of change and challenges the past few years and we stayed on course with our commitment to student success. It is exciting for the Webber community to be recognized for all of our hard work!”
Under her leadership, Webber has embraced the Positivity Project, incorporating the program into many aspects of its 510-student school culture.
The embrace has united the school community and created an atmosphere of inclusivity, encouragement, and kindness. Promoting good citizenship and positive character traits connects the students and staff members.
This focus allows the students to concentrate on giving back to each other and the community.
With quarterly assessments, the staff is available to support students who need assistance and guide those who are on a strong path. Engaged students and families, a professional culture, strong leadership and culturally responsiveteaching and learning show Webber as deserving of this high honor.
“This meaningful honor is a cumulative effort resulting from collaboration with families and school staff," LOCS Superintendent Ben Kirby said. "The leadership of Mrs. Goethals and her instructional staff is proactive while being responsive to the needs of all learners at Webber Elementary. This recognition is an honor for the entire Dragon Community. I am proud of our students, staff, and families for the cultural and academic achievements demonstrated by our students.”
From the school’s application: “The Webber staff is continually engaging in professional development to increase the effectiveness of their instruction and interventions. We are always looking for ways to improve what we do in ourclassrooms and our school community. We see very strong academic and emotional growth from our students, and we celebrate this every step of the way!”
Webber is the latest LOCS school to be honored by the National Blue Ribbon Schools program.
Since the first awards in 1983, three LOCS schools have received the National Blue Ribbon School designation: Pine Tree Elementary (1997), Lake Orion High School (2000) and Stadium Drive Elementary (2001).
Original source can be found here.
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