[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 162 (2016), Part 10]
[Senate]
[Page 14514]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




      RECOGNIZING NORTHPOINT ELEMENTARY SCHOOL OF GRANGER, INDIANA

  Mr. DONNELLY. Mr. President, today, I wish to recognize Northpoint 
Elementary School of Granger, IN, for being named a 2016 National Blue 
Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education.
  Established in 1982, the National Blue Ribbon Schools Program has 
recognized 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 
students.
  Recognized as a Blue Ribbon School in 2010, Northpoint Elementary 
School continues to demonstrate academic excellence and works to meet 
the individual needs of its students through various strategies and 
assessments. Northpoint demonstrates an interactive method to learning 
and embodies a triangle of success approach that develops a strong 
connection between the school, parents, and teachers.
  Northpoint Elementary School's staff, students, and families work 
together to teach and foster values that develop strong character 
including academic excellence and service to others. Teachers and 
support staff not only mentor students academically but also focus on 
nurturing students' social and emotional needs. Programs to help 
students are provided before, during, and after school, including an 
antibullying program that is taught to students and reinforced 
regularly.
  Northpoint Elementary School is an example of how dedication, 
motivation, collaboration, and strong family engagement in education 
benefits both students and the local community. Students participate in 
various programs, including giving back to families in need by donating 
gifts during the holidays and supporting local homeless shelters.
  Northpoint students come from various backgrounds. With a diverse 
student body, Northpoint has created an inclusive atmosphere to ensure 
every student is treated with respect.
  I am proud to recognize Northpoint Elementary School principal Diane 
L. Wirth, the entire staff, the student body, and their families. The 
effort, dedication, and value you put into education has led not only 
to this prestigious recognition, but will benefit you and the Granger 
community well into the future.
  On behalf of the citizens of Indiana, I congratulate Northpoint 
Elementary School, and I wish the students and staff continued success 
in the future.

                          ____________________