The State of New York recently proclaimed Lake Avenue Elementary School in Saratoga Springs a 2012 National Blue Ribbon School.
U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan announced the award last week. The school applied for the recognition in March 2011 after the state Education Department nominated it for a national award.
“It’s only through the support of all the elementary schools and the district’s entire educational team that the light has shined on us,” Lake Avenue Principal Barbara Messier said. She gave special thanks to special education teacher Pam Noska, reading specialist Laura Frederick and second-grade teacher Mary Goliber, who spent hours preparing the Blue Ribbon application. Noska will attend a recognition ceremony in Washington, D.C., on Nov. 12-13, when the U.S. Dept. of Education will honor approximately 219 public and 50 private schools.
“Our nation has no greater responsibility than helping all children realize their full potential,” Secretary Duncan said. “Schools honored with the National Blue Ribbon Schools award are committed to accelerating student achievement and preparing students for success in college and careers. Their work reflects the conviction that every child has promise and that education is the surest pathway to a strong, secure future.” Lake Avenue was nominated in the category of “exemplary high performing,” as one of the state’s highest performing schools as measured by performance on state assessments.
Greenfield Elementary School in the city school district was recognized as a National Blue Ribbon School in 1999.