Linden's School 5 wins US Department of Education's Blue Ribbon

Toni Yates Image
Thursday, September 24, 2020
NJ school wins US Department of Education's Blue Ribbon
On Thursday, the U.S. Department of Education awarded Linden's School 5 its prestigious Blue Ribbon, a recognition of academic excellence.

LINDEN, New Jersey (WABC) -- A school in New Jersey has been awarded a national distinction.

The motto at School 5 in Linden is "Where dreams come alive."

Thursday, the U.S. Department of Education awarded the school its prestigious Blue Ribbon, a recognition of academic excellence.

When the pandemic hit, classrooms were left empty across the country. Kids were going to school from home, but obviously kids and teachers from School 5 in Linden didn't let a virus derail the hefty goal that they'd set for themselves.

Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos made the announcement in a special video message.

It's a national education honor that recognizes students performing at high levels or making huge leaps.

One key ingredient that got School 5 is love.

"We always love our students first here at School 5 and once the students know how much they are loved they work hard for us because they know that we have their best interests in mind," said Laura Scamardella, School 5 principal.

The announcement was historic for Linden.

"We are over the moon! I inherited this as the new superintendent, but it speaks volumes about the community," Superintendent Marnie Hazelton said.

"Since Mrs. Scamardella has gotten to school 5 she has raised the bar and it is a tribute to her hard work," said Derek Armstead, Mayor of Linden.

Through it all, the school has risen to the top.

----------

* More New Jersey news

* Send us a news tip

* Download the abc7NY app for breaking news alerts

* Follow us on YouTube