[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 132 (Thursday, September 17, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2300]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 CONGRATULATIONS PEORIA CHRISTIAN ELEMENTARY ON BEING NAMED A NATIONAL 
                           BLUE RIBBON SCHOOL

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                           HON. AARON SCHOCK

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 17, 2009

  Mr. SCHOCK. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Peoria Christian 
Elementary School in Peoria, Illinois on being named a 2009 National 
Blue Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education.
  Peoria Christian joined only 49 other private schools, from a pool of 
more than 27,000, as a private recipient of this award; the school was 
nominated by the Council for American Private Education, also known as 
CAPE. By being recognized with the award, Peoria Christian has 
demonstrated its successes in ensuring students achieve exceptionally 
high national test scores.
  I applaud the concerted effort it took to elevate the school's test 
scores to such an extraordinary level. As I honor this school I must 
remind this body that while this award is presented to Peoria Christian 
School, the award really reflects the combined efforts of all those 
involved with the school. As former Peoria School Board President, I 
know that every successful school has the trinity of skilled educators, 
committed students and involved parents as a base.
  Also on a personal note, I always find it impressive to see a school 
allow for students' academic and personal development. As such, I must 
applaud the school's commitment to the mission of preparing their 
``students to lead Christ-like lives.'' I'm certain that Peoria 
Christian will not only continue to flourish as an institution for 
years to come, but that its young students will eventually become 
active leaders in Peoria, Illinois and throughout these United States.
  Again, congratulations Peoria Christian.

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