[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 162 (Monday, November 14, 2016)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1439]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





       CONGRATULATING WEST CLAY ELEMENTARY, A BLUE RIBBON SCHOOL

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                          HON. SUSAN W. BROOKS

                               of indiana

                    in the house of representatives

                       Monday, November 14, 2016

  Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate an 
outstanding school in my district that is being honored as a 2016 
National Blue Ribbon School. It is a pleasure to congratulate West Clay 
Elementary in Carmel, Indiana in celebration of this special occasion.
  The National Blue Ribbon designation, given by the United States 
Department of Education, is awarded to both public and private schools 
across our great nation. Started by President Reagan and given annually 
since 1982, the award celebrates great American schools that achieve 
very high learning standards or are making significant improvements in 
the academic achievements of their students. In my district and across 
the country, the award recognizes the great educators, students, and 
parents who have worked so hard to ensure Indiana's children reach 
their full potential and achieve academic success.
  For all of these reasons and many more, I am so proud that West Clay 
Elementary is receiving this prestigious designation. It is a wonderful 
acknowledgement of the school's commitment to providing young Hoosiers 
an exceptional education. While hundreds of schools nationwide were 
nominated, only 329 schools were designated as 2016 National Blue 
Ribbon Schools, making this recognition all the more impressive.
  West Clay Elementary's dedication to empower students to become 
active, independent learners and educational risk takers helps students 
to achieve their goals and grow academically. This growth mindset 
allows students to explore opportunities in order to realize their full 
potential as learners. West Clay creates a positive environment for its 
students through the school community's commitment to diversity and 
creating a respectful environment where all students are celebrated for 
what makes them unique. Their commitment to diversity and excellence 
has made it a thriving community which fosters respect and builds on a 
foundation of open ongoing communication between students, teachers, 
and parents.
  As an advocate for education and youth, I also want to acknowledge 
how important it is to our nation's future to encourage and raise a new 
generation of Americans who have the skills and knowledge to succeed 
both in and out of the classroom. Students like those at West Clay 
Elementary give me hope that we will accomplish this vital mission. 
Their outstanding work is an inspiration to students, educators, and 
parents across the nation. Once again, congratulations to West Clay 
Elementary. I am very proud of you.

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