[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 161 (2015), Part 14]
[Senate]
[Page 19579]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                 RECOGNIZING MEMORIAL ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

  Mr. DONNELLY. Mr. President, today, I wish to applaud Memorial 
Elementary School of Valparaiso, Indiana 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.
  Memorial 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 multiple times.
  In 2014, Memorial Elementary School's ISTEP+ pass rate for English/
Language Arts scores increased by nearly 2 percent to 96.7 percent. 
Mathematics scores increased to 98 percent combined for third through 
fifth grades.
  Memorial Elementary School's effectiveness can be found in its 
holistic approach and dedication to student achievement. Memorial 
staff, students, and students' families work together to teach and 
instill values that develop strong character and HEART: honesty, 
effort, attitude, respect, and teamwork. With some of the highest 
English and mathematics scores in Indiana, Memorial Elementary School 
is a stellar example of the benefits that result from dedication, 
motivation, collaboration, and family partnership in education.
  I would like to recognize Memorial Elementary School principal, Debra 
Misecko, 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 Memorial 
Elementary School, and I wish the students and staff continued success 
in the future.

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