[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 176 (Tuesday, December 9, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2531]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


  DECEMBER SCHOOL OF THE MONTH, NEW YORK'S 4TH CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT

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                         HON. CAROLYN McCARTHY

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                        Monday, December 8, 2003

  Ms. McCARTHY. Mr. Speaker, it's with great pride that I announce 
Franklin Elementary School in the Hempstead Union Free School District 
as School of the Month in the Fourth Congressional District for 
December 2003.
  The Principal of Franklin Elementary School is John W. Moore. Regina 
Armstrong and Carolyn Townes-Richards are the Assistant Principals, and 
the Superintendent of Schools is Dr. Nathaniel Clay. Franklin 
Elementary School is the largest elementary school in the Village of 
Hempstead with over 750 students in grades Kindergarten through 5, and 
115 dedicated staff members. The faculty work to fulfill the school's 
mission: To achieve a safe and secure educational environment that 
promotes working with parents and the community to ensure that all 
students reach and maintain high academic standards.
  Despite various factors the students must overcome, they have shown, 
and maintained, academic progress in their pursuit to achieve and 
exceed the standards set by the school. The school's motto, ``Your 
choices determine your destiny.* * * Choose them wisely,'' puts the 
students'' future in their hands and they have succeeded. Through the 
rich and diverse cultural wisdom of its students and staff, Franklin 
Elementary School has distinguished itself as a community, county and a 
national resource. Recognized as a national school of excellence, 
Franklin Elementary School this year received from the Department of 
Education the National Blue Ribbon award. The honor is awarded annually 
to schools to acknowledge the achievements and hard work of the 
students, staff members, families and community.
  Franklin Elementary School's band has been locally and nationally 
recognized and is regarded as one of the best elementary school bands 
in New York State. The band has participated in numerous community 
events resulting in its adoption by the Eastern Regional Federal 
Aviation Headquarters. The organization has given students mentorship, 
tours of its facilities, awards and career advice. It is a relationship 
benefiting both sides, which I hope will be maintained in the future.
  Mr. Speaker, the faculty and students, of Franklin, along with the 
community, have created a wonderful learning environment. I am proud to 
name Franklin Elementary School the school of the month for December 
2003.

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