Photos: Westlake Students Honored with Ice Cream Party

What's better than ending the school day one hour early? 

If you're a kid at , it's getting out of school one hour early AND having an ice cream party.

The private school's 325 students got to clock off from their studies early Thursday afternoon to celebrate their achievement of being honored as a 2012 National Blue Ribbon School. Blue Bell Ice Cream threw a party for the kids to help them celebrate.

“The award is truly a validation of all of the hard work done by our teachers, staff, students, and parents. It’s fulfilling to know that our commitment to teach the minds and reach the hearts of our students was recognized and honored,” said Westlake Christian School Principal Rick Pucci.

U.S. Secretary of Education, Arne Duncan made the announcement about the Blue Ribbon Award winners on September 7.

Westlake Christian School was one of two private Florida schools to win the award. 269 public and private schools nationwide were honored with the award. 

The school's steel drum band performed and special guest State Rep. Peter Nehr spoke to students during the celebration Thursday afternoon.

Related-

•  List of 2012 Blue Ribbon Schools