[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 97 (Thursday, July 10, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1389]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             ALMOR WEST AND PIONEER PARK SCHOOLS EARN AWARD

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                            HON. J.C. WATTS

                              of oklahoma

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, July 9, 1997

  Mr. WATTS of Oklahoma. Mr. Speaker, recently the Department of 
Education announced the selection of elementary and middle schools 
which were awarded the prestigious Blue Ribbon School Award. I am proud 
to announce that two schools from Lawton, OK, have been recognized.
  I am delighted to congratulate Pioneer Park Elementary School and 
Almor West Elementary School on this great achievement.
  These schools display the qualities of excellence that are necessary 
to prepare our young people for the challenges of the next century. 
Blue Ribbon School status is awarded to schools which have strong 
leadership; a clear vision and sense of mission that is shared by all 
connected with the school; high quality teaching; challenging, up-to-
date curriculum; policies and practices that ensure a safe environment 
conducive to learning; a solid commitment to parental involvement; and 
evidence that the school helps all students achieve high standards.
  This is an honor that is vigorously sought by thousands of schools 
across the Nation. We are so very proud of the students and teachers, 
the parents and administrators, and all at Pioneer Park and Almor West 
Elementary Schools who have been selected for this distinguished 
recognition.

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