Grace Thille Elementary School celebrates National Blue Ribbon Award

Grace Thille Elementary School held a celebration last week, after receiving a National Blue Ribbon Award. Grace Thille is one of 21 schools statewide and 300 schools in the nation to receive this honor this year. 

The Blue Ribbon Schools Program honors public and private elementary, middle and high schools whose students achieve at very high levels or have made significant progress and helped close gaps in achievement, especially among disadvantaged and minority students. 

New Principal Mary Fennell welcomed everyone to the chilly outdoor event. “This is the result of the work of many… the district staff, the focus and support of the school leader Mrs. Contreras, the phenomenal staff, brilliant students and the wonderful supportive parents.”

Santa Paula Elementary School District Superintendent Dr. F. Paul Chounet said, “I would like to impress on everyone how significant it is to be given this award. There are over 13,000 public and private schools in California and only 21 were named as National Blue Ribbon Schools last year. The award is impressive and a great national honor, but most important it’s about the children. The award signifies that the students at Grace Thille School received a quality education that they so dearly deserve.”

Now retired Principal Frances Contreras submitted the application for the award last year. Speaking to the children, she said, “Today’s a special day, because what you have achieved in these past six years most children never dream of doing or achieving. Not only did you meet the 880 points we made as a school goal, you also received the most important award any school can receive, the National Blue Ribbon. That means you are the best in all of the United States.” She went on to challenge the students to get the 20 points they need to reach 900.