St. Norbert Catholic School in Paoli has been named a 2021 National Blue Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education.

St. Norbert is one of just 13 schools in Pennsylvania — and the only one in Chester County — to receive the honor, which is considered the gold standard in education. This marks the second time the K-8 school has been recognized as a National Blue Ribbon School under the leadership of principal Mary Kay Hennessy.

Hennessy, a veteran of Catholic education who spent the first 30 years of her career as a teacher, is in her 12th year as principal at St. Norbert.

“This year’s cohort of honorees demonstrates what is possible when committed educators and school leaders create vibrant, welcoming, and affirming school cultures where rich teaching and learning can flourish,” said U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona.

Only 325 schools across the country were recognized this year as National Blue Ribbon Schools. In the face of unprecedented circumstances, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, they found creative ways to engage, care for, protect, and teach children.

“I commend all our Blue Ribbon honorees for working to keep students healthy and safe while meeting their academic, social, emotional, and mental health needs,” said Cardona. “Blue Ribbon Schools have so much to offer and can serve as a model for other schools and communities so that we can truly build back better.”

The coveted Blue Ribbon affirms the hard work of educators, families, and communities in creating safe and welcoming schools where students master challenging and engaging content.

Learn more about St. Norbert Catholic School.