Message from Father Carl - September 30, 2025

Today, I’m delighted to congratulate two of our schools – Ascension School and St. Giles School – on their individual achievements in the National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence program.

As you may know, the Blue Ribbon program has long been regarded as a prestigious honor given to select schools nationwide that demonstrate outstanding academic achievement and exceptional teaching and learning. Earlier this year, the Council for American Private Education (CLICK HERE) nominated both Ascension School and St. Giles School to the Blue Ribbon program as part of a rigorous evaluation process of schools nationwide. Being nominated is a notable achievement and schools must meet a set of criteria to even be considered for the award.

On Wednesday, September 24, Greg Richmond, Archdiocese of Chicago Catholic Schools Superintendent, recognized the Chicago-area schools that were awarded (CLICK HERE) the Blue Ribbon for 2025. I’m thrilled to share that St. Giles was among the 10 schools in the Archdiocese to receive the Blue Ribbon, placing it among the top 15% of schools nationwide. This prestigious recognition is one that every student, parent and teacher should be proud of.

As a faith community, we are blessed to have three vibrant Catholic schools that each deliver a nurturing, faith-filled educational experience to its students. Being recognized as a National Blue Ribbon School nominee or award winner reflects Ascension and St. Giles’ shared commitment to academic excellence, strong student outcomes, and faith.

Congratulations to both schools on their nomination and to St. Giles on its award. Your parish community is proud of you!

Fr. Carl Morello
Pastor
Ascension and St. Edmund Parish
St. Catherine of Siena-St. Lucy and St. Giles Parish