THE LAST WORD:

Each year, students, parents, teachers and administrators await the news with great anticipation.

Are we a Blue Ribbon school?

For many, the answer is no. Those awards are not doled out to every school.

The awards are reserved for those showing excellence in academic achievement and educational progress. In fact, only 287 schools nationwide received the awards last week.

This year, Victoria and Mariners Elementary in the Newport-Mesa Unified School District and the private Mariners Christian School joined that elite membership as they were named 2007 No Child Left Behind Blue Ribbon Schools.

The students in those schools should be proud of their achievements, as we know the parents, teachers and administrators are proud of them.

Early education is one of the most important keys to success in a child’s life.

Parental involvement and great teachers are a hallmark of this community.

So let the celebration begin. Victoria, Mariners and Mariners Christian, we salute you.