St. Benedict Preparatory School Named 2026 Governor's Blue Ribbon School

St. Benedict Preparatory School Named 2026 Governor's Blue Ribbon School State designation celebrates the school’s exceptional academic achievement.  

[Chicago] – St. Benedict Preparatory School has been named a 2026 Governor's Blue Ribbon School, earning one of the state's highest recognitions for educational excellence. The school is one of just 24 schools statewide to receive the distinction this year. 

“I want to congratulate our 2026 Governor’s Blue Ribbon Schools, who demonstrate what is possible when students, educators, families, and communities come together to support our children in reaching their full potential,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “All across the state, Illinois schools are reaching new heights in school performance, graduation rates, and learning proficiency – a testament to the passion and dedication of our teachers and the power of sustained public investment in education.” 

The Illinois Governor's Blue Ribbon Schools Program recognizes public and nonpublic schools that demonstrate exceptional student outcomes through outstanding academic performance or success in closing achievement gaps. St. Benedict Preparatory School was recognized as an Exemplary High Performing School.  

“This recognition is a powerful affirmation of our mission and the values that define St. Benedict Preparatory School," said Ms. Rachel Gemo, Head of School.  "Grounded in our Catholic faith, we believe each child is uniquely created and called by God to grow in wisdom, character, and purpose. Being named a Governor’s Blue Ribbon School reflects the commitment of our students, faculty, staff, and families to academic excellence while remaining rooted in faith, service, and compassion. This honor celebrates not only what our students achieve, but who they are becoming.” 

High Performing Schools demonstrate consistently strong academic outcomes over time, not just in a single year. 

"Being named a Governor's Blue Ribbon School is a remarkable achievement and a testament to the hard work of students, educators, staff, and families," said State Superintendent of Education Dr. Tony Sanders. "These schools have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to student success, whether through exceptional academic performance or meaningful progress in closing achievement gaps. Their accomplishments reflect the strength of Illinois education and provide examples of excellence for schools across our state." 

Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) announced recipients on Oct. 20. All 2026 Governor's Blue Ribbon School recipients will be invited to a special recognition event at the Governor's Mansion in Springfield this spring. 

The Governor's Blue Ribbon Schools Program was established in 2025, after the federal administration abruptly ended the prestigious U.S. Department of Education program. The Governor’s Blue Ribbon Schools Program continues the longstanding tradition of recognizing educational excellence in Illinois schools. Schools receiving the designation serve as models for effective teaching, learning, and student support across the state.