Webber Elementary joins nine other Lake Orion schools as a Blue Ribbon School of Excellence, making the total number ten out of 11.
‘I’m bursting with pride that the state of Michigan is recognizing the professionalism, commitment and service to children that the entire staff, community and school exhibits daily,? said Superintendent Ken Gutman. ‘They are recognizing what we already knew.?
This is second time Webber applied for the award but the first success. Staff submitted the first application in 2003, but weren’t selected. After five years of improvement and self-evaluation, they were ready for the title.
‘We knew we were a blue ribbon school, we just needed the title,? said Webber Principal Sarah Manzo. ‘The application process was a true look at ourselves. A good summary, a good self-reflection piece.?
Since 2003, the school has been working on addressing students? individual needs.
‘We have more of a focus on individualization of students,? said Manzo. ‘We’ve been honing in, drilling in on their exact needs.?
One of the school’s biggest goals was to empower students and staff to better understand how students learn.
‘We wanted them to take ownership, to make critical decisions on what’s best,? Manzo added.
They worked especially on writing and reading, an effort that’s been reflected in their State Report Card scores.
‘We’re getting As now,? said Manzo.
Webber will be officially honored by the state with the Blue Ribbon award on April 29. They’ll hold a celebration at the school and expect a visit from State Board of Education President Kathleen Straus.
‘The gym will be packed with staff, students and community members,? said an excited Manzo. ‘I haven’t stopped smiling since I found out.?