🦅 To Shouts of Joy—SJE Is a Blue Ribbon School!

We are thrilled to share extraordinary news that shines a bright light on St. John the Evangelist School’s unwavering commitment to academic excellence and faith-based education.

SJE School has been named a Blue Ribbon School, recognized as an “Exemplary High Performing School.” This prestigious national honor places SJE among the top 15 percent of schools in the nation for student achievement!

This remarkable accomplishment reflects the strength of our entire community—a family bound by faith, hard work, and the pursuit of excellence.

We extend heartfelt gratitude to our Blue Ribbon Committee, whose leadership and perseverance made this goal possible; to our outstanding teachers and staff, whose dedication to academic rigor and faith formation never wavers; to our students, whose curiosity, energy, and joy inspire us every day; and to our parents and parish community, whose unwavering support makes everything we do possible.

“Being recognized as an Exemplary High Performing School affirms our mission to foster both intellectual growth and spiritual development,” shares Father Sammie Maletta. 

Our commitment to excellence extends beyond academics—it’s about forming disciples of Jesus who will make a meaningful impact in the world. Faith and learning aren’t just parallel paths at SJE; they are woven together into everything we do.

Of course, every great achievement comes with a story! Father Maletta gives special thanks to Principal Katie Fredericksen, who, along with her incredible team, worked on the lengthy Blue Ribbon application process last year—without telling him! Their quiet perseverance and hard work made this possible, marking a truly significant milestone in our school’s history.

Although the Federal Blue Ribbon Program is being discontinued after 43 years, we are deeply honored to be included in its final cohort of recognized schools. This distinction will continue to be celebrated in partnership with the Council for American Private Education, the Indiana Department of Education, the National Catholic Educational Association, and most importantly, with our beloved SJE community, says Principal Katie Fredericksen.

“We are grateful for God’s blessings and guidance on this journey,” adds Father Maletta. “Christ remains at the center of our mission — always.”

As we celebrate this incredible honor, we do so with hearts full of gratitude and joy. May we continue to grow together in faith, wisdom, and excellence, always striving to glorify God in all we do.

🦅 It’s time to celebrate, SJE family—Go Eagles! 💙