Saint Philip Catholic School earns Indiana Blue Ribbon

Special to the News

The Indiana Department of Education has named Saint Philip Catholic School in Posey County an Indiana Blue Ribbon School for 2025.

In the inaugural year of the state’s recognition program, IDOE officials explained that the prestigious recognition is a reflection of the school’s exemplary academic performance and innovative efforts to meet the needs of all learners.

“By fostering an environment where excellence is not only expected, but achieved, your school stands as a model for others across our state and nation,” Indiana Secretary of Education Dr. Katie Jenner and Indiana Gov. Mike Braun stated in a joint press release.

The Council for American Private Education (CAPE) also named Saint Philip Catholic School a 2025 Blue Ribbon School. CAPE, a national organization based in Washington, D.C., recognized 55 exemplary non-public schools as 2025 CAPE Blue Ribbon Schools. The national award honors schools in one of two performance categories: Exemplary High-Performing Schools, as measured by state assessments or nationally normed tests; and Exemplary Achievement Gap-Closing Schools, as measured by the closing of achievement gaps between a school’s student groups and all students.

Saint Philip is one of six non-public schools recognized this year by the IDOE, and one of 11 Indiana schools earning the honor. In the state’s inaugural year of the program, Saint Philip is the first Diocese of Evansville Catholic School named an Indiana Blue Ribbon School.

Saint Philip Principal Kellie Kelsey said, “We are absolutely thrilled that Saint Philip School has been named a Blue Ribbon School! This incredible honor is a testament to our entire Saint Philip community. It celebrates not only the outstanding achievements of our students, but also the dedication of our teachers, staff, parents and parishioners. Our school would not be what it is today without their unwavering support, and we are so excited to celebrate this remarkable accomplishment together!”

Prior to the IDOE launching the statewide program, the U.S. Department of Education held a National Blue Ribbon School program annually since 1982, before it ended abruptly earlier this year. As education is returned to the states, the DOE has encouraged states to continue to celebrate the achievements of their local schools. Four Diocese of Evansville Catholic Schools earned the national recognition. Those schools are: Saint Wendel Catholic School in Saint Wendel was honored in 2024, Saint John the Baptist School in Newburgh was recognized in 2023, Holy Family School in Jasper earned the honor in 2013, and the DOE recognized Evansville’s Reitz Memorial High School in 2002.

The IDOE recognizes schools based on:

• Innovative programs

• School Community and Culture

• Overview of Curriculum and Instruction in all subject areas

• School Culture and Climate

• Strategies for Excellence

Diocese of Evansville Superintendent Michelle Priar said, “I’m so proud of the whole Saint Philip School community! This is a great honor and the result of outstanding work from so many people. Congratulations to the students, staff, families and parishioners whose efforts all contribute to the success of Saint Philip Catholic School. The Catholic Schools Office, as well as Catholic schools across the diocese, are celebrating with you!”

Saint Philip Pastor Father Ryan Hilderbrand said, “I am so thankful to be on an excellent team with Mrs. Kelsey, our teachers, staff, volunteers and parishioners. The Indiana Blue Ribbon designation is the result of their dedication to our students, love for our mission and strong Catholic faith.”

Indiana Secretary of Education Dr. Jenner and Indiana Gov. Braun commended the leadership of Principal Kellie Kelsey, the dedication of teachers and staff, and the incredible work ethic of Saint Philip’s students and families.

“Together, you have created a culture of learning that nurtures every student’s potential and prepares them for a future filled with opportunity,” the congratulatory letter stated.

For more information, contact the Diocese of Evansville Communications Office at 812-424-5536 or email communications@evdio.org.