A dozen schools in the Greater Philadelphia region were recently designated as National Blue Ribbon Schools by Betsy DeVos, the U.S. Secretary of Education.

West Vincent Elementary School in Chester Springs was the only school in Chester County to earn the award, which recognizes overall academic excellence or success in narrowing achievement gaps.

Less than one percent of schools nationwide receive the award. DeVos named 362 winners this year.

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

Positive relationships and collaboration are the keys to the success of West Vincent, which is part of the Owen J. Roberts School District. The community of Chester Springs is steeped in a history that has always valued education as a priority.

“At West Vincent, we utilize a multi-level approach to nurture the social-emotional well-being of students,” according to the school’s profile on the National Blue Ribbon Schools program’s website. “Through classroom lessons and community involvement, we strive to connect all areas of a child’s life to support their social-emotional development.”

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