[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 82 (Monday, May 19, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E963-E964]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




     RECOGNIZING THE 75TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE WASHINGTON D. SMYSER 
                           ACCELERATED SCHOOL

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. RAHM EMANUEL

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                          Monday, May 19, 2008

  Mr. EMANUEL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to join with the people of 
Portage Park and all of Chicago in congratulating Washington D. Smyser 
Accelerated School on their 75th Anniversary. This milestone will be 
marked by a 75th Anniversary Gala at Biagio's Banquets in Chicago, 
Illinois.
  During the past 75 years, Smyser Accelerated School has educated 
thousands of children and has been an anchor for generations of 
families in the Portage Park community. The Smyser School mission to 
provide high quality educational services to all children within the 
Portage Park community has been evident through their role in the 
community as well as through recognition by the Illinois State Board of 
Education.
  Smyser School has also been selected as one of 508 ``Spotlight 
Schools'' in Illinois. Spotlight Schools have a high poverty rate, yet 
maintain a high academic performance. The Spotlight Schools recognize 
low-income students and schools that overcome limited resources to show 
impressive academic performance.
  The Smyser School philosophy is that all children are entitled to an 
outstanding education rich in opportunities and rewarding experiences. 
They are committed to providing all children with a love of learning 
and pride in Smyser School as well as their community. They provide 
their students with opportunities for academic, athletic, and artistic 
growth while instilling values that will serve its students throughout 
their lives. These activities and experiences teach students the 
importance of academic achievement.
  Madam Speaker, I would like to thank the Smyser School's faculty and 
staff for the contributions they have made to their community.

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They are shaping today's youth and tomorrow's future. As their 
representative in Congress, I am proud to congratulate Smyser School's 
alumni, students, teachers, and staff on its achievements over the last 
75 years, and I wish them the best of luck and continued growth in the 
future.

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