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Douglas MacArthur Elementary School Named 2012 National Blue Ribbon School

Mac Blue Ribbon Photo
 
  
U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan recognizes Douglas MacArthur Elementary School one of 269 schools in the nation to be named a 2012 National Blue Ribbon School based on their overall academic excellence or for making progress in improving student academic achievement levels.  “Our nation has no greater responsibility than helping all children realize their full potential,” 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.” The U.S. Department of Education will honor approximately 219 public and 50 private schools at a recognition ceremony on Nov. 12-13 in Washington, D.C. 
 

Douglas MacArthur qualifies and is recognized as an "Exemplary High Performing" 2012 National Blue Ribbon School. The program recognizes schools in one of two performance categories. The first category is “Exemplary High Performing,” in which schools are recognized among their state’s highest performing schools, as measured by state assessments or nationally-normed tests. The second category is “Exemplary Improving,” in which schools that have at least 40 percent of their students from disadvantaged backgrounds demonstrate the most progress in improving student achievement levels as measured by state assessments or nationally-normed tests.

 
Out of the 1,158 elementary schools in Indiana, Douglas MacArthur Elementary School was one of five elementary schools in the state and the only school in Lake County to receive this prestigious honor. The National Blue Ribbon Schools award sets a standard of excellence for striving to reach the highest level of achievement.
 
"This Lifetime Achievement Award is the highest honor in America. Prinicpal Marian Buchko is the most humble servant leader; the master teachers the most dedicated; the support staff the most hands-on; and the students the most hard working that parents know their children have bright futures.  There is nothing more grand than knowing our students are achieving at the highest levels in the nation.  Indeed, Principal Marian Buchko is a star polisher," boasted Dr. Teresa A. Eineman - Superintendent of Schools.