[Congressional Record Volume 161, Number 177 (Tuesday, December 8, 2015)]
[Senate]
[Page S8483]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                RECOGNIZING OAK TRACE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

  Mr. DONNELLY. Mr. President, today I wish to applaud Oak Trace 
Elementary School of Westfield, 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.
  Oak Trace 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 several times.
  In 2014, Oak Trace Elementary School's ISTEP+ pass rate for English/
Language Arts scores increased by over 2 percent to a full 100 percent. 
Mathematics scores increased to 98.7 percent combined for third through 
fourth grades.
  Oak Trace Elementary School's effectiveness can be found in its 
holistic approach and dedication to student achievement. Oak Trace 
staff, students, and students' families work together to teach and 
instill values that develop strong character including integrity, 
responsibility, effort, and kindness. With some of the highest English 
and mathematics scores in Indiana, Oak Trace 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 Oak Trace Elementary School principal, 
Robin Lynch, 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 Oak Trace 
Elementary School, and I wish the students and staff continued success 
in the future.

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