[Congressional Record Volume 163, Number 147 (Tuesday, September 12, 2017)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1209]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   IN RECOGNITION OF OAKCREST SCHOOL'S NEW CAMPUS IN VIENNA, VIRGINIA

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. BARBARA COMSTOCK

                              of virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                      Tuesday, September 12, 2017

  Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the grand opening of 
Oakcrest School's new campus in Virginia's 10th Congressional District 
on Saturday, September 9th in Vienna, Virginia. Together with the 
opening, the first annual Inaugural Homecoming reunited classmates, 
faculty and friends in celebration of this wonderful expansion. 
Oakcrest is an independently-owned, all-girls school, grades 6 to 12, 
that develops strong young women of character, inspiring these 
individuals to challenge, lead, and serve others through an instilled 
faith.
  Founded in 1976 in Washington, D.C. with twenty-two students, 
Oakcrest has grown to serve over two-hundred-twenty-five young women, 
making each student well-rounded, through their mission to educate the 
whole person, in intellect, character, faith and leadership. This new 
campus in Virginia's 10th Congressional District, will offer Oakcrest 
the ability to grow to 330 students and eventually 450 students when 
they complete the second phase of campus construction. Currently this 
70,000 square foot building includes a three story Virginia manor 
house, housing two academic wings. Students will enjoy learning in the 
vibrant environments of the two science labs, two music rooms with 
acoustic treatments, art room, and large library with a fireplace and a 
media center. In addition, Oakcrest will continue to build their 
athletics program with a brand new natural grass and softball fields.
  Inspired by the teachings of the Catholic Church and the spirituality 
of Opus Dei, Oakcrest School develops deep love in faith and strong 
learning abilities, through a rich liberal arts curriculum, character 
development, one-on-one mentoring and service to create an encouraging 
environment that graduates confident and courageous young women. I 
appreciate the role your educators have held in shaping the future of 
our nation. While teaching can be an arduous task, I know it comes with 
its share of fulfilling moments, both inside and outside the classroom, 
which now includes an annual school spirit Homecoming celebration. It 
is due to the tireless efforts of our educators that we are able to 
foster a positive and nurturing learning environment for our children, 
and this year, able to come together as an entire Oakcrest community in 
celebration of our past and future achievements. More than 1,200 
friends, families, current and former faculty and alumnae joined to 
celebrate this exciting chapter in Oakcrest's history in bringing 
together the largest group of Oakcrest alumnae with over 120 graduates 
in attendance.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in honoring the Head of 
School, Mary T. Ortiz and the entire faculty, student body and alumnae 
at Oakcrest School for opening their new campus and working to unite 
Virginia's 10th Congressional District through this lifelong 
sisterhood. I wish Oakcrest a joyous year in support of lifelong faith, 
friendships and learning.

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