A local school is being recognized by the United States Department of Education as a National Blue Ribbon School for 2019. John F. Farrell Elementary School in Emmett was one of 362 schools across the country honored with this year’s award. The Superintendent for Yale Public Schools, Kenneth Nicholl, said he received an email on Thursday from the Secretary of Education, Betsy DeVos, letting him know that the school was selected as a winner. Mr. Nicholl said, “the teachers are rockstars,” and also added that, “the [administration is] proud of the performance by staff and the kids.” The school was honored in the category of exemplary academic performance. According to Nicholl, he believes Yale schools are “one of the best kept secrets in the thumb.” Nicholl and other administration officials spent time Friday personally thanking each teacher at the school. 13 schools in Michigan received the honor. Betsy DeVos said, “As National Blue Ribbon Schools, these schools demonstrate what is possible when committed educators hold all students and staff to high standards and create vibrant, innovative cultures of teaching and learning.”
