[Congressional Record Volume 166, Number 40 (Friday, February 28, 2020)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E233-E234]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  RECOGNIZING THOMAS EDISON MIDDLE SCHOOL OF MERIDEN, CONNECTICUT FOR 
 BEING NAMED A NATIONAL MAGNET SCHOOL OF DISTINCTION BY MAGNET SCHOOLS 
                               OF AMERICA

                                  _____
                                 

                           HON. JAHANA HAYES

                             of connecticut

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, February 28, 2020

  Mrs. HAYES. Madam Speaker, I rise to congratulate Thomas Edison 
Middle School of Meriden, Connecticut for being named a National Magnet 
School of Distinction by Magnet Schools of America.
  Thomas Edison is one of 12 schools in Connecticut and one of 142 in 
the country to be given this prestigious distinction. Its challenging 
curriculum, full engineering program, innovative technical supports, 
and strong family and community partnerships have resulted in high 
student achievement at the school.
  Thomas Edison started an initiative that has provided every student 
with a laptop to help with their studies. That kind of investment in 
students and commitment to reducing disparity pays dividends--in 
student success.
  Even with plentiful resources, success takes staff buy-in, strong 
leadership and tireless work. I commend the staff at Thomas Edison for 
their commitment to their craft and dedication to students.
  But it also takes a community--parents devoted to their children's 
learning, and students empowered and motivated to go the extra mile. 
Thomas Edison has implemented a Families as Partners program to foster 
mutual respect and effective collaboration between families and school 
staff. It has also partnered with Community Health Center Inc. to 
provide behavioral health services and dental services at school.
  This comprehensive approach to supporting students with wraparound 
services makes a difference. Students learn best when their physical, 
mental and emotional needs are met.
  This week also happens to be National Public Schools week--a week 
when we celebrate the significant contributions and accomplishments of 
students, parents, educators and education advocates in our public 
schools.
  The achievements of Thomas Edison underscore the importance of 
supporting robust federal investment in public education, including

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the Magnet Schools Assistance Program. I am committed to continuing to 
fight for strong supports and funding for public schools and programs 
with a track record of success, so that every school in my district and 
around the country has resources needed to mirror the accomplishments 
achieved at Thomas Edison Middle School.
  Every school in America has the potential to be a school of 
distinction--we just need to prioritize education.
  Again, I congratulate the Thomas Edison Middle School community for 
this award and honor.

                          ____________________