[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 161 (2015), Part 14]
[Senate]
[Page 19693]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                  RECOGNIZING NORTH ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

  Mr. DONNELLY. Mr. President, today I wish to applaud North Elementary 
School of Poseyville, IN, 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.
  North 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 several times.
  In 2014, North Elementary School's ISTEP+ pass rate for English/
Language Arts scores increased by over 7 percent to a 94.8 percent. 
Mathematics scores increased to 97.2 percent combined for third through 
fifth grades.
  North Elementary School's effectiveness can be found in its holistic 
approach and dedication to student achievement. North Elementary staff, 
students, and students' families work together to teach and instill 
values that develop strong character including integrity, 
responsibility, effort, and kindness. With some of the highest English 
and mathematics scores in Indiana, North 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 North Elementary School principal, Terri 
Waugaman, 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 North Elementary 
School, and I wish the students and staff continued success in the 
future.

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