[Congressional Record Volume 161, Number 177 (Tuesday, December 8, 2015)]
[Senate]
[Page S8482]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 RECOGNIZING MURDOCK ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

  Mr. DONNELLY. Mr. President, today I wish to applaud Murdock 
Elementary School of Lafayette, IN, for being recognized as a 2015 
National Blue Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education.
  Established in 1982, the National Blue Ribbon Schools Program has 
recognized over 7,500 public and nonpublic schools that have 
demonstrated a vision of educational excellence for all students, 
regardless of their social or economic background. Since its inception, 
this program has offered the opportunity for schools in every State to 
gain recognition for educational accomplishments in closing the 
achievement gaps among student groups.
  Murdock Elementary School continues to be one of the best performing 
schools in the State of Indiana. It has been named an Indiana Four Star 
School for 4 consecutive years.
  In 2014, Murdock Elementary School's ISTEP+ pass rate for English/
Language Arts scores reached 97.7 percent. Mathematics scores exceeded 
95 percent, and the overall score for the school hit 94.3 percent.
  Murdock Elementary School's effectiveness can be found in its 
holistic approach and dedication to student achievement. Murdock staff, 
students, and students' families work together to teach and instill 
values that develop strong character and demonstrate that every kid 
matters: honesty, effort, caring, respect, and teamwork. With some of 
the highest English and mathematics scores in Indiana, Murdock 
Elementary School is a stellar example of the benefits that result from 
dedication, motivation, collaboration, and family partnership in 
education.
  I would like to acknowledge Murdock Elementary School principal, 
Janell Uerkwitz, the entire staff, the student body, and their 
families. The effort, dedication, and value you put into education led 
not only to this prestigious recognition, but will benefit you and our 
communities well into the future.
  On behalf of the citizens of Indiana, I congratulate Murdock 
Elementary School, and I wish the students and staff continued success 
in the future.

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