National Blue Ribbon School
In 2009 and again in 2023, Christ Our King-Stella Maris School was named a National Blue Ribbon School by the US Department of Education. This achievement was possible thanks to the hard work of the school's administration, faculty, parents, and students. Everyone who is, has been, or will ever be involved with Christ Our King-Stella Maris School should be immensely proud of this accomplishment.
The news appeared in several local news outlets:
Moultrie News
Post and Courier
Post and Courier (editorial)
We also received congratulations from countless institutions and individuals after the announcement:
“In these days when some question the value of Catholic Education, we are proud to see such excellence emerging in the Catholic community.” – The Alliance for Catholic Education of Notre Dame University
“Your faculty, staff, and students have clearly shown incredible dedication in the face of many challenges, and I am grateful for your hard work in securing an excellent education for our young people.” – Senator Jim DeMint
“I am aware of the implications of such an honor and the effort it took on behalf of so many to merit this national recognition. If, however, this accolade indicates one thing – it is that unity and working together in a positive manner for the honor and glory of God produce abundant fruit.” – Monsignor James Carter
“What a pleasure it is to receive this acknowledgement of the academically excellent – added to what we already know as the authentically Catholic school you and your faculty and staff offer to the members of Christ Our King-Stella Maris School.” – Sister Julia Hutchison, SND, Superintendent of Schools, Diocese of Charleston
“While I know it was hard putting everything together during the application process, I also know that the hard part wasn’t finding great things to include in the application. Rather the hard part was deciding which great things had to come out so that the write up would not exceed the word limits!” – John Byrnes, Chairman of the COK-SM School Board, parent, and first school president upon institution of the President/Principal model of administration in 2012
“So many had a hand and continue to have a hand in making our school excellent!” – Wendy Albano, School Board member and parent
“Congratulations to all! Your hard work and dedication paid off. COK-SM is the best!” – Aimee Bischoff, School Board member and parent
“What a thrill for all involved! I know you worked hard for that award.” – Katie Rama, former HSA President
“Please let everyone know how proud I am of all of you. I am bragging all over Connecticut and couldn’t be happier!” – Kiki Walker, former teacher
“Congratulations! It is a wonderful honor!” – Jason Kreutner, Head of School, The University School of the Lowcountry
“In these days when some question the value of Catholic Education, we are proud to see such excellence emerging in the Catholic community.” – The Alliance for Catholic Education of Notre Dame University“Your faculty, staff, and students have clearly shown incredible dedication in the face of many challenges, and I am grateful for your hard work in securing an excellent education for our young people.” – Senator Jim DeMint
“I am aware of the implications of such an honor and the effort it took on behalf of so many to merit this national recognition. If, however, this accolade indicates one thing – it is that unity and working together in a positive manner for the honor and glory of God produce abundant fruit.” – Monsignor James Carter
“What a pleasure it is to receive this acknowledgement of the academically excellent – added to what we already know as the authentically Catholic school you and your faculty and staff offer to the members of Christ Our King-Stella Maris School.” – Sister Julia Hutchison, SND, Superintendent of Schools, Diocese of Charleston
“While I know it was hard putting everything together during the application process, I also know that the hard part wasn’t finding great things to include in the application. Rather the hard part was deciding which great things had to come out so that the write up would not exceed the word limits!” – John Byrnes, Chairman of the COK-SM School Board, parent, and first school president upon institution of the President/Principal model of administration in 2012
“So many had a hand and continue to have a hand in making our school excellent!” – Wendy Albano, School Board member and parent
“Congratulations to all! Your hard work and dedication paid off. COK-SM is the best!” – Aimee Bischoff, School Board member and parent
“What a thrill for all involved! I know you worked hard for that award.” – Katie Rama, former HSA President
“Please let everyone know how proud I am of all of you. I am bragging all over Connecticut and couldn’t be happier!” – Kiki Walker, former teacher
“Congratulations! It is a wonderful honor!” – Jason Kreutner, Head of School, The University School of the Lowcountry