Students, staff, teachers and administrators were decked out in blue on May 22 in recognition of Carrie E. Tompkins Elementary School’s designation as a 2014 National Blue Ribbon School.
According to Principal Kelly Maloney, the prestigious award means that CET is “a model of excellence and good teaching.” She noted, “We are one of only 18 elementary schools out of more than 700 in New York to receive this award. We should be very proud.”
The day began with the raising of the Blue Ribbon flag in front of the school and the Pledge of Allegiance. Students and guests, including PTA members, village officials and other figures important to the school’s success, then gathered in the multipurpose room to celebrate.
The day’s events included performances by the chorus and remarks from Maloney, Superintendent of Schools Dr. Edward R. Fuhrman Jr. and Board of Education President Giuseppina Miller. Thanks to the support of the PTA, every student, teacher and administrator wore a special Blue Ribbon shirt for the occasion.
Fuhrman said the award reinforces the district mission of “educating the whole child.”
Added Miller, “Hard work pays off.”
Two students from each grade level shared brief essays they had written about the Blue Ribbon designation, many recognizing the outstanding teachers with whom they work every day. Every faculty and staff member was applauded and given a gift by third- and fourth-grade student government representatives.
“CET is a National Blue Ribbon School because I love the teachers and they make me happy,” said kindergartner Logan Friedman.
Third-grader Thomas Frazer added, “CET has teachers who make learning fun.”
The school also received a proclamation from U.S. Congresswoman Nita Lowey congratulating CET for its distinction. The program ended with student government representatives leading the ceremony’s guests through building tours, which included hearing student-musicians perform throughout the school.“[CET] is such a friendly, kind and supportive environment,” said fourth-grader Ben Gardos.
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