On the recordNovember 13, 2014
Mr. President, I also wish to recognize Hamilton Southeastern Junior High School of Fishers, IN for being recognized as a 2014 National Blue Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education. Established in 1982, the National Blue Ribbon Schools Program has recognized over 7,000 public and non-public schools that demonstrate 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 any achievement gaps among student groups. Recognition as a National Blue Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education is based on a school being identified as ``Exemplary High Performing,'' schools that are ranked in the top 15 percent nationally in English and mathematics, measured by each State's assessment, or as ``Exemplary Achievement Gap Closing,'' where schools with at least 40 percent of their student body coming from disadvantaged backgrounds are reducing the achievement gap in English and mathematics. Hamilton Southeastern Junior High School has made great strides in these areas. Hamilton Southeastern Junior High School combines creativity and critical thinking with the tools of the 21st century. Students are taught complex problem solving, innovative collaboration, and the merits of integrity.…





