In the area of Mission and Catholic Identity, we were commended on the following:

• The connection and integration between the school community and the parish community are exceptional. Each stakeholder group, in their own words, described how this is a singular community where the parish supports the school, and the school supports the parish.
• School and parish leadership for mission, including Fr. Tim and Mrs. Lestina, were identified by parents, students, and staff as critical to the faith formation of the community. The relationship between the leaders appeared honest, supportive, and showed a genuine mutual investment. Fr. Tim’s embrace of the school, its students, and parents, and his support for staff are exceptional.
• St. Gabriel offered multiple examples of how it is aligned with its mission when making critical decisions. The school’s mission statement was designed with an accessible and creative conclusion that is undeniably Catholic. It invites young students to know, understand, and live the school’s mission.
• The school’s leaders are focused on mission and Catholic identity when making decisions. Efforts have been made to integrate religion into all subject areas. Texts and reading materials were chosen because of faith. The Spirit Group program is fully integrated into the school’s culture, with the school schedule being designed around the Spirit Group program.

In the area of Academic Excellence, we were commended on the following:

• One of the most notable strengths identified by the Committee was the faculty and administration’s thorough, schoolwide curriculum review. By carefully addressing both horizontal and vertical alignment, St. Gabriel has ensured that learning objectives progress logically and meaningfully across grade levels and content areas. This intentional work has resulted in a cohesive, standards-aligned curriculum that supports academic growth for every learner and demonstrates the school’s commitment to excellence.
• The school’s work in developing and refining its Response to Intervention (RtI) program is equally commendable. Committee members were especially inspired by the faculty’s dedication, expressed through the significant time invested in professional development, data analysis, and collaborative planning. Teachers spoke passionately about their collective responsibility for every student’s success, and this passion was reflected in the effective use of data to guide instruction and interventions. Parent feedback confirmed that families feel well-informed and supported—testament to the school’s strong communication practices and whole-child approach.
• The integration of data-driven instruction at St. Gabriel is particularly impressive. Through the strategic use of tools such as MAP and IXL, teachers differentiate instruction in meaningful ways, providing appropriate support for students who are struggling and targeted enrichment for those ready to be challenged. This adaptive, learner-focused practice ensures that every student is both seen and stretched toward their full academic potential.
• Finally, and most importantly, Catholic identity is unmistakably present and alive at St. Gabriel. The integration of Catholic Social Teachings across subject areas and the authentic witness of Gospel values by students and staff alike provide a strong foundation that anchors the school’s academic mission in faith.

This was a true team effort and a tremendous accomplishment. Our entire school community—teachers, staff, and families—came together with dedication and purpose to achieve these goals.

As the school prepares for the 2025–2026 academic year, it does so with gratitude, pride, and a renewed commitment to excellence in Catholic education.

A big THANK YOU to the Washington County Daily News for featuring St. Gabriel Catholic Parish School and our recent Double Exemplary Recognition. Thank you for helping us share the good news!