Third time in four years on prestigious list; only school in metro Detroit

PONTIAC, Mich. (Nov. 10, 2008)—Notre Dame Preparatory School announced today that it has been named to the National Catholic High School Honor Roll, a compilation of the nation’s best 50 Catholic secondary schools.

The purpose of the National Catholic High School Honor Roll is to recognize and encourage excellence in Catholic secondary education. A critical resource for parents and educators, the Honor Roll distinguishes those schools that excel in three categories: academic excellence, Catholic identity, and civic education.

This is the third time in four years that Notre Dame Preparatory School has received this honor and follows the school’s recent authorization as Michigan’s only Catholic International Baccalaureate “World School.” The school previously was named to the Honor Roll in 2005 and 2007.  This year it is one of only six schools in the state and the only school in metro Detroit to receive this special recognition.

“We are once again honored to be named as one of the top 50 Catholic schools in the U.S.,” said Fr. Joseph Hindelang, Principal of Notre Dame Preparatory chool. “It is a real testament to our teachers, students and parents, and their commitment to the ideals of Catholic education. Our mission is to form Christian people, good citizens, and academic scholars. This award is recognition that we live our mission and are recognized as one of the best in the country at integrating Catholic identity with civic responsibility and educational excellence.”

The Honor Roll is an independent project of the Acton Institute, an international research and educational organization. It is produced in consultation with an advisory board comprised of Catholic college presidents and scholars. Advisory board member Very Rev. David M. O’Connell, President of Catholic University of America, said the Honor Roll’s evaluation method is indispensable. “Catholic schools must examine themselves on a regular basis using a well-rounded approach that assesses adherence to the Church’s educational calling,” he said. “The Honor Roll strengthens schools by encouraging high standards and vibrant Catholicism.”

To see a list of the top 50 schools, as well as lists of the 10 honorable mention schools in each category, visit www.chshonor.org.

In its five years, the Honor Roll has seen over 50 percent of America’s nearly 1,300 Catholic high schools participate at least once. This year nearly 300 schools completed the three detailed surveys that measure a school’s adherence to the Church’s educational mission. Each school also receives an evaluation to see how it compares to other schools nationwide.

The best schools demonstrate a balanced excellence, which includes an active Catholic culture, sound college preparation and integration of Church teaching in all departments. These schools also display sound moral, catechetical and civic formation that prepares students for vocations in the world as political, religious, scientific, and business leaders.

About The National Catholic High School Honor Roll: The National Catholic High School Honor Roll is a list of the top 50 Catholic high schools in the United States, where schools are examined on the criteria of academic excellence, Catholic identity, and civic education. The purpose of the Honor Roll is to recognize and encourage excellence in Catholic secondary education, and is a resource for parents, schools, donors, and colleges. For more on Acton, please go to www.acton.org.

About Notre Dame Preparatory School and Marist Academy: Notre Dame Preparatory School and Marist Academy is a Catholic, independent, coeducational day school. Notre Dame Preparatory School, an International Baccalaureate “World School,” enrolls students in grades nine through twelve. Notre Dame Marist Academy enrolls students in Jr. Kindergarten through grade eight. The school is conducted by the Marist Fathers and Brothers and is accredited by the Independent Schools Association of the Central States and the North Central Association Commission on Accreditation and School Improvement. For more on Notre Dame Preparatory School and Marist Academy, visit www.ndpma.org.