Pike Liberal Arts School has attained the Alabama Independent School Association Blue Ribbon School designation for the 2009-10 school year.

A Blue Ribbon School award winner is an excellent school involved in an on-going process of school improvement.

The selection of PLAS to the program is evidence that our school has attained a high level of excellence in the areas of student and teacher performance, plant and facilities, student life and community involvement, said Ceil Sikes, PLAS headmaster.

“Being distinguished as an AISA Blue Ribbon School again this year means what I’ve known all along,” Sikes said.

“Our teachers do an outstanding job. They set their goals high and excellence is what we have come to expect at Pike Liberal Arts. We take education seriously here.”

For the school year 2008-09, 14 member schools of the AISA, including PLAS, received Blue Ribbon status.

“This year, 21 schools were recognized as Blue Ribbon Schools,” Sikes said.

“That is a good indication that we are all striving in that direction on an on-going basis. Even though the economy is not like we want it to be, we continue to find a way to success.”

Sikes said that since 1970 the AISA has been steadfast in its efforts to maintain an organization of independently operated, non-public schools that are rich in diversity, committed to academic excellence and deeply concerned about the growth and development of young children.

“The association’s goal is to provide quality educational opportunities for those parents choosing an alternative to public education,” she said.

The AISA Blue Ribbon School program is sponsored by the AISA to recognize member schools with outstanding educational programs.