[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 44 (Friday, April 7, 2006)]
[Senate]
[Page S3376]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




          AMERICAN COMMUNITY SCHOOL AT BEIRUT CENTENNIAL YEAR

 Mr. SUNUNU. Mr. President, I wish to recognize an important 
milestone for an institution in the Middle East that brings American-
style education to the region.
  This academic year, the American Community School at Beirut 
celebrates 100 years of providing quality education in Lebanon. Founded 
in 1905 by a group of American missionary families living in the 
country, and supported by the American University of Beirut and Aramco, 
ACS was the first American K-12 school to open in Lebanon. An 
independent, nonprofit, co-educational institution chartered in the 
State of New York, about 1,000 students are now enrolled at the school.
  ACS aims to provide an American education for Lebanese and 
international families. Similar to many schools in the United States, 
the school's mission clearly states that it: `` . . . seeks to educate 
the whole person and to lay the foundations for life-long learning . . 
. Students are encouraged to take responsibility for their thoughts, 
words and actions, to act with honor and purpose, and to make a 
difference in our diverse, complex global society. . . .'' The school's 
alumni have distinguished themselves in a range of fields, including 
serving the United States government and in Lebanese-American 
relations.
  ACS, which appreciates the support of Congress through U.S. Agency 
for International Development and ASHA grants, starts a new century 
with a legacy of academic excellence, committed educators, and a 
dedicated community. I congratulate the school on this impressive 
achievement, and extend my best wishes for its next 100 years.

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