[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 99 (Monday, July 14, 1997)]
[Senate]
[Page S7427]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 HARRISVILLE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL, A 1997 NATIONAL BLUE RIBBON SCHOOL OF 
                               EXCELLENCE

 Mr. ROCKEFELLER. Mr. President, I would like to take this 
opportunity to recognize Harrisville Elementary School of Harrisville, 
WV. This fine public school was recently selected as a 1997 National 
Blue Ribbon School of Excellence by the U.S. Department of Education. 
It was 1 of 7 elementary schools in my State to receive this 
prestigious award, and 1 of 38 West Virginia schools that have been 
recognized since the National Blue Ribbon School Program began in 1982.
  Schools are judged on curriculum, leadership, teaching environment, 
student performance on standardized tests, parent and community 
support, graduation rates and post graduation pursuits. Harrisville 
Elementary's goal is ``to educate all students to their maximum 
abilities.'' Although 65 percent of the students are from low 
socioeconomic backgrounds, a high level of achievement is expected of 
all students. Along with Principal Marion Roby; teachers, support 
staff, parents, and community members work together to provide students 
with quality learning experiences. This dedication to student success 
and academic excellence is evident in the remarkable growth the 
students have achieved. Student total battery scores on the CTBS/4 test 
have increased from the 47th percentile to the 88th percentile.
  Located in the north-central part of the State, Harrisville 
Elementary School was the first school in Ritchie County to have a 
networked computer lab where all students have daily scheduled class. 
The students also participate in STARS (Special Time with At-Risk 
Students) and take part in GATORS (Guiding Attitudes Toward Outstanding 
Responsible Students). These two staff designed programs promote life-
long decisionmaking skills and build self esteem. The school piloted a 
comprehensive health program, Know Your Body, which was later adopted 
by the rest of the country. The school's staff is one of the best in 
the State with four Ritchie County Teachers of the Year, including the 
1996 honoree.
  As a National Blue Ribbon School, Harrisville Elementary School is a 
role model for other schools across the country on how teachers, 
administrators, parents and students can work togther to create an 
educational environment that helps children excel. Everyone in the 
Harrisville community should be proud of the notoriety that their local 
institution has achieved. It is my pleasure to publicly congratulate 
this school for its commitment to academic success. I know that this 
school will continue its good work and represent West Virginia proudly 
on a national level.

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