[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 161 (2015), Part 14]
[Senate]
[Page 19768]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




              RECOGNIZING PRAIRIE VISTA ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

  Mr. DONNELLY. Mr. President, today I wish to applaud Prairie Vista 
Elementary School of Granger, 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.
  Prairie Vista 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 for the last 7 consecutive years.
  In 2014, Prairie Vista Elementary School's ISTEP+ pass rate for 
English/Language Arts scores increased to 98.7 percent. Mathematics 
scores increased over 3 points to reach 98.7 percent combined for third 
through fifth grades.
  Prairie Vista Elementary School's effectiveness can be found in its 
holistic approach and dedication to student achievement. Prairie Vista 
Elementary staff, students, and students' families work together to 
teach and instill values that develop strong character and a sense of 
PRIDE--the capacity to be Prepared, Respectful, Independent, 
Dependable, and Excellent learners. With some of the highest English 
and mathematics scores in Indiana, Prairie Vista 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 Prairie Vista Elementary School principal, 
Keely Twibell, 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 Prairie Vista 
Elementary School, and I wish the students and staff continued success 
in the future.

                          ____________________