Five schools in Delaware County were among 12 local schools  that won the U.S. Department of Education’s top honor Thursday, designated by Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos as National Blue Ribbon Schools, writes Kristen A. Graham for The Philadelphia Inquirer.

Less than one percent of schools nationwide receive the award, given for overall academic excellence or success in narrowing achievement gaps.

DeVos named 362 winners nationwide.

“We recognize and honor your important work in preparing students for successful careers and meaningful lives,” she said in announcing the 2019 honors.

Delaware County schools that made Blue Ribbon status are:

• Cardinal John Foley Regional Catholic School in Havertown;
• Saint Pius X School in Broomall;
• Saint Thomas the Apostle School in Glen Mills;
• Saints Colman-John Neumann School in Bryn Mawr;
• Sabold Elementary School in Springfield.

“This honor is symbolic of the determination and commitment to success that our students and staff display on a daily basis,” Sabold Elementary School principal Peter Brigg said in a statement.

Other schools in the Pennsylvania suburbs receiving the honor are:

— Afton Elementary School in Yardley;

— Mary, Mother of the Redeemer School in North Wales

Read more about the Blue Ribbon schools here.

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