LINDEN – Marengo Academy received word Monday that it has been named an Alabama Independent School Association (AISA) Blue Ribbon School for the 2010-2011 school year. The designation is based on the organization’s assessment that the institution has met or exceeded criteria in teaching, student performance, school life and community interaction.

“The biggest thing is just that you’re trying to do things right – trying to have good school life,” Marengo Academy Headmaster Robby James said. “They check everything from test scores to academic performance.”

In order to qualify for the designation, the school had to participate in as many AISA-sanctioned activities as possible.

“You have to participate in everything the AISA offers, whether it’s an SGA program or a sports program,” James said. “You have to send a video of your whole campus, teachers teaching, bulletin boards…”

According to the AISA, the blue ribbon program is intended to recognize member schools with outstanding educational programs.

“The AISA has been steadfast in its efforts since 1970 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 children and youth. The association’s goal is to provide quality education opportunities for those parents choosing and alternative to public education,” a press release issued by the AISA Monday read.

James said the designation provides a considerable boost to the morale of the institution’s faculty and will go a long way in helping it with impending endeavors.

“We have accreditation in February and (the Blue Ribbon designation) will be big in that process,” James said.

More than anything, James believes the status signifies the continued growth of Marengo Academy.

“You always try to get better,” James said. “If you don’t, you’re just backing up.”