[Congressional Record Volume 140, Number 139 (Thursday, September 29, 1994)]
[Senate]
[Page S]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]


[Congressional Record: September 29, 1994]
From the Congressional Record Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]

 
                        EXCELLENCE IN EDUCATION

  Mr. GORTON. Mr. President, today I would like to recognize three 
outstanding Washington State schools. One each at the upper elementary, 
middle, and high school level which are currently participating in the 
We the People. . . The Citizen and the Constitution Program. Each of 
these schools demonstrate excellence in education and have implemented 
this program which helps students understand the history and principles 
of our constitutional government.
  While at home over the January recess, I organized a meeting of over 
200 parents, teachers, administrators, and students. At this conference 
I listened carefully to the concerns and ideas of those in attendance. 
While I heard many varied and different suggestions, one theme was 
constraint. Innovative and resourceful programs which educators and 
community members work hard to plan and execute deserve more 
recognition. I therefore promised to recognize, on a monthly basis, a 
school or school district program that is outstanding and innovative. 
Bow Lake Elementary School in SeaTac, Cascade Middle School in Seattle, 
and Kelso High School in Kelso are schools deserving and worthy of such 
recognition.
  The We the People . . . The Citizen and the Constitution Program is 
funded through the Department of Education by an act of Congress. The 
program focuses on the U.S. Constitution and Bill of Rights and fosters 
civic competence and responsibility among elementary and secondary 
school students in both public and private schools. Students who 
participate in the program learn critical thinking and analytical 
skills while developing a reasoned commitment to the fundamental 
principles and values of our constitutional democracy.
  Again, I congratulate these three outstanding schools. It is a 
tribute to the hardwork of the teachers, school officials, students, 
and the commitment of the parents and the community to have such 
schools representing Washington State. These qualities of excellence 
are necessary for tomorrow's schools and for fostering a continued 
awareness of our Nation's constitutional past. I hope their mission and 
vision of excellence in education will continue to spread across 
Washington State and the country.

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