[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 159 (Thursday, October 29, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E2657-E2658]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                HONORING CENTRE AVENUE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. CAROLYN McCARTHY

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, October 29, 2009

  Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize 
the students, faculty and staff of the Centre Avenue Elementary School 
and congratulate them for having received the prestigious Blue Ribbon 
School Award. The Blue Ribbon Schools Program recognizes schools that 
make significant progress in closing the achievement gap or whose 
students achieve at very high levels.
  Centre Avenue Elementary School has been successful in meeting the 
highest standards of the New York State assessments, with test results 
consistently meeting the state's expectations by having a high number 
of students performing at maximum levels. Centre Avenue succeeds in 
providing an atmosphere where students foster a desire for lifelong 
learning and are motivated to reach their highest potential 
academically, creatively, socially, physically and emotionally.
  Centre Avenue is committed to providing an educational environment 
where safety permeates. Students are encouraged to expand their social 
and emotional development with involvement in groups and participation 
in any of the numerous clubs offered. A supplemental aspect of their 
curriculum is to teach the students social responsibility. A school-
wide Jump-A-Thon supported the American Heart Association, money was 
collected to assist Island Harvest in their quest to end hunger on Long 
Island, the Toys for Tots program helped disadvantaged families have a 
happier holiday, and the Food Drive helped restock the supplies at the 
Ronald McDonald House.

[[Page E2658]]

  The future of this country depends on the hopes and dreams of its 
children. Our community and our nation, are enhanced by the 
contributions of high achieving students like those at Centre Avenue 
Elementary School. Additionally, I would like to recognize the work of 
the teachers and administrators who dedicate their lives to their 
students. The staff is the back-bone of the student's success and I 
thank them for all that they do on a daily basis.
  Madam Speaker, it is with pride and admiration I offer my thanks and 
recognition to the Centre Avenue Elementary School.

                          ____________________