Crystal Lake's Glacier Ridge named School of Excellence by National PTA

Glacier Ridge Elementary School in Crystal Lake and its PTA were recognized as a 2019-20 School of Excellence by the National PTA.

“Glacier Ridge Elementary School and the Glacier Ridge PTA have worked hard to strengthen their family-school partnership, and their efforts are making a positive impact on student success and school improvement,” Leslie Boggs, president of the National PTA, said in a statement released Wednesday. “We are pleased to recognize them as a 2019-2020 School of Excellence.”

Glacier Ridge received the honor because of its accomplishments in building a strong, effective family-school partnership, according to a news release.

The Glacier Ridge PTA hosts the school’s annual fun run, after-school clubs and evening events for families, including Glacier Ridge Reads, skate night, movie night, school dances and special programs. These programs include a presentation made last year about internet safety.

“Together with our PTA we strive to create a community that is truly about family,” Glacier Ridge Principal John Jacobsen said. “Our partnership has not only assisted in providing resources, events and opportunities for our students and families, it has also helped promote social-emotional values and a sense of shared responsibility among our school community.”

Glacier Ridge and its PTA are one of only 326 PTAs and schools nationwide to be designated a 2019-20 School of Excellence.

“Glacier Ridge Elementary School and the Glacier Ridge PTA have created a partnership that is truly something to celebrate,” National PTA Vice President Debbie Stewart said. “This group of parents and school staff are dedicated to the betterment of the educational experience and social enjoyment for the students and Glacier Ridge community.”

The National PTA gave Glacier Ridge and its PTA a certificate and banner to hang touting their designation.