Parkside Elementary Named 2025 Pennsylvania Blue Ribbon School

“For years I have seen great work occurring at Parkside - it is a wonderful place to learn, grow, and make friends. The PA Department of Education has certainly identified a real treasure in bringing to light the terrific academic and school climate outcomes at Parkside.”

Dr. George Steinhoff, Penn-Delco Superintendent

The Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) has named Parkside Elementary School a 2025 Pennsylvania Blue Ribbon School, one of only thirteen schools across the Commonwealth - and the only school in Delaware County - to earn this inaugural recognition.

Although the U.S. Department of Education recently concluded its National Blue Ribbon Schools Program, PDE created the Pennsylvania Blue Ribbon Schools recognition to honor schools demonstrating exceptional student achievement and closing achievement gaps. Honorees will be celebrated at the PDE SAS Conference on December 9, 2025, in Hershey, PA.

Known as “The Little School with the Big Heart,” Parkside Elementary is a vibrant learning community that values collaboration, exploration, and continuous growth. Led by Principal Tara Young, the school is committed to meeting students where they are through differentiated instruction, intervention, and enrichment opportunities. Its educators actively refine their practices through professional development, building strong partnerships among students, staff, and families.

Superintendent Dr. George Steinhoff said the recognition shines a light on something the Penn-Delco community has long known about Parkside:

“For years I have seen great work occurring at Parkside - it is a wonderful place to learn, grow, and make friends. The PA Department of Education has certainly identified a real treasure in bringing to light the terrific academic and school climate outcomes at Parkside.”

A defining feature of Parkside is its transformation into a Leader in Me School, based on Stephen Covey’s The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. This initiative empowers students to take ownership of their learning and behavior while cultivating leadership, responsibility, and initiative. Through engaging activities, monthly themes, and weekly guidance lessons, Parkside nurtures academic, social, and emotional growth - creating a culture where every student is seen as a leader.

Dr. Steinhoff noted that the school’s close-knit and caring environment is immediately evident:

“From the minute a visitor arrives at Parkside, they sense a close-knit, caring school community with great students and dedicated staff. There is a positive vibe, and you can feel the confidence that students have in themselves and the school as they work to bring out the distinctive but special individual character and talents that every Parkside student has.”

He added that Parkside’s success reflects Penn-Delco’s broader mission.

“Parkside embodies our district mission which is committed to seeing every student achieve mastery of foundational skills, succeed at learning ‘Ready for Life’ skills, and excel in the pursuit of a personal interest or talent. They work on those goals each and every day, and I couldn’t be more proud of what they have accomplished.”

The recognition, Dr. Steinhoff said, is not only an achievement for Parkside but also a point of pride for the entire district.

“Penn-Delco is blessed with six outstanding schools, and Parkside can proudly represent them all as they show our Commitment to Excellence in their selection as a 2025 PA Blue Ribbon School.”

This honor highlights Parkside Elementary’s holistic approach to education, its dedicated leadership, and its role as a model for innovative learning in Pennsylvania.

To learn more about the 2025 Pennsylvania Blue Ribbon Schools, visit the Pennsylvania Department of Education website.