[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 165 (Thursday, November 17, 2016)]
[Senate]
[Page S6462]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




       RECOGNIZING UNION ELEMENTARY SCHOOL OF ZIONSVILLE, INDIANA

  Mr. DONNELLY. Mr. President, today, I wish to recognize Union 
Elementary School of Zionsville, IN, for being named a 2016 National 
Blue Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education.
  Established in 1982, the National Blue Ribbon Schools Program has 
recognized 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 
students.
  Union Elementary School opened at its current location in 2007 and 
currently serves over 600 students. Union Elementary prides itself on 
creating a nurturing and collaborative learning environment, where 
teachers, students, and teachers work together so that all students can 
reach their potential. Teachers utilize a wide variety of assessment 
practices to measure student progress, make instructional decisions, 
and to evaluate the effectiveness of academic programs.
  Union Elementary School seeks to ensure students are enriched both 
during and after school. The school has an outdoor classroom, which 
includes native Indiana wildflowers, a butterfly garden, and vegetable 
gardening space, allowing creativity to go beyond the traditional 
classroom. Students are offered various extracurricular activities, 
including foreign language clubs, art enrichment, engineering club, a 
kids fitness program--Fit Kidz--and a drama club.
  Union Elementary maintains a high standard for academic excellence, 
which can be attributed to the success of a rigorous curriculum, 
innovative instructional practices, and a highly qualified and 
dedicated staff. Faculty works closely with parents to ensure their 
children are receiving a quality education. Parents are encouraged to 
be an active part in their child's learning from serving as field trip 
chaperones to volunteering in the classroom. Union Elementary School's 
dedication to student achievement and positive atmosphere have been key 
to its success. The school's staff and families work together to teach 
and foster values that develop strong character and better the 
community.
  I am proud to recognize Union Elementary School principal Jennifer 
Raycroft, the entire staff, the student body, and their families. The 
effort, dedication, and value you put into education has led not only 
to this prestigious recognition, but will benefit you and the 
Zionsville communities well into the future.
  On behalf of the citizens of Indiana, I congratulate Union Elementary 
School, and I wish the students and staff continued success in the 
future.

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