SAN MARINO (Sept. 29, 2015) - U.S. Secretary of Education, Arne Duncan today recognized W. L. Valentine Elementary School as a 2015 National Blue Ribbon School based on the school's exemplary academic performance.

Valentine School will be honored alongside 335 other schools across the nation at a recognition ceremony to be held November 9 and 10 in Washington, DC.

"The Board of Education and I are so proud of the students, teachers, and administrators of Valentine Elementary School on the achievement of this national award of excellence.  Although Valentine has always been a high performing and outstanding school for our elementary students, it is exciting that the U.S. Department of Education has recognized its exemplary educational practices and accomplishments," said Mrs. Lisa Link, President of the San Marino USD Board of Education.

 

The National Blue Ribbon Schools award honors public and private elementary, middle and high schools where students perform at very high levels or where significant improvements are being made in students' levels of achievement. Valentine School was recognized as an "exemplary high performing" school, a category in which schools are recognized among their state's highest performing schools as measured by state assessments.

"I congratulate Valentine School for their great academic achievement and tireless commitment to excellence," said San Marino USD Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Alex Cherniss. "This recognition validates the innovation and rigor that we are committed to providing our students, not only at Valentine, but throughout the entire District."

 
Valentine School enrolls approximately 561 students in grades TK-5 and was recognized as a California Distinguished School in 2014.  Principal Mrs. Colleen Shields said, "Our students, staff and parents have worked hard to earn this recognition as a 2015 National Blue Ribbon School!  We are so fortunate to be a part of a truly unique and outstanding school district and community.  Children truly are at the heart of all that we do.  Our success depends upon the support of our community, family and parents who all make Valentine a great place to learn and grow!"

 

With Valentine School being recognized as a 2015 National Blue Ribbon School, every school in the San Marino USD has been bestowed with this coveted award.