[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 77 (Thursday, June 15, 2006)]
[Senate]
[Page S5947]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 IN HONOR OF GEORGE WINGATE HIGH SCHOOL

 Mrs. BOXER. Mr. President, I take this opportunity to honor 
George Wingate High School in Brooklyn, NY. Wingate High School, my 
alma mater, will graduate its last class on June 27, 2006.
  In 1954, Wingate High School accepted its first class of students and 
had its first graduating class in 1957. It was the first high school 
built in New York after the end of World War II, and it embodied many 
of the ideals of the baby boomer generation. Wingate High School was so 
different from the standard design plan for schools that it became 
known as ``The Banjo School'' because of its open design.
  Wingate High School was also innovative in its approach to teaching. 
Instead of focusing strictly on academic classes, Wingate was one of 
the first high schools in the Nation to offer a comprehensive range of 
classes in vocational, commercial and academic fields. Wingate High 
School has been known for its outstanding aviation, culinary arts, 
nursing and law programs, and many of its students have gone on to 
become successful pilots, chefs, nurses and attorneys.
  Wingate has had a few famous graduates such as former New York State 
senator and current Brooklyn Borough president, Marty Markowitz, and 
Roger Brown, a New York City playground legend who went on to greatness 
in the American Basketball Association. However, thousands of other 
Wingate graduates have made priceless contributions to their 
communities, in part because of the valuable lessons they learned 
there.
  I firmly believe that a quality education is the key to our youths' 
success and our nation's future. I commend Wingate's teachers, faculty, 
staff, and volunteers for their many years of hard work and dedication 
to Wingate High School's students. Their work has resulted in thousands 
of students who are better prepared to face the world and its 
challenges. I commend them for their commitment to quality education. 
Their enthusiasm and love of teaching means a brighter future for all 
of our children.
  Wingate High School's motto is: ``Ad Astra per Ardua''--``To the 
stars through struggle.'' In its 52-year history, George Wingate High 
School has graduated thousands of students who have gone on to make the 
world a better place. Though the journey has not always been easy, I 
know that Wingate's 2006 graduates will go on to do great things.
  I give my most sincere congratulations and best wishes for the future 
to Wingate High School's Class of 2006.

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