Honor Herricks High Achievement

Senate Resolution No. 4482 BY: Senator PHILLIPS CONGRATULATING Herricks High School upon the occasion of its designation as a National Blue Ribbon School by the United States Department of Education WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize and commend those institutions of true purpose and high achievement whose exemplary programs and accomplishment clearly demonstrate an enduring pursuit of excellence in the education of the youth of the Empire State; and WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to congratulate Herricks High School upon the occasion of its designation as a National Blue Ribbon School by the United States Department of Education; and WHEREAS, Designation as a Blue Ribbon School by the United States Department of Education is indicative of high level school standards set in pursuit of excellence; and WHEREAS, As a Blue Ribbon School, Herricks High School has been judged to be particularly effective in meeting local, state, and national educational goals; it has also displayed the qualities of excellence necessary to prepare young people for the challenges of the 21st Century; and WHEREAS, Blue Ribbon School status is awarded to schools which have demonstrated strong leadership; a clear vision and sense of mission that is shared by all connected with the school; high quality teaching; a challenging, up-to-date curriculum; policies and practices that ensure a safe environment conducive to learning; a solid commitment to parental involvement; and evidence that the school helps all students achieve high standards; and WHEREAS, This extraordinary high school met the "Exemplary High-Performing Schools" standards by falling within the top 15% of all schools in New York State for assessment results and demonstrating other exceptional statistics, such as high graduation rates; and WHEREAS, Herricks High School students shine as high-performing scholars, artists, musicians and athletes; each year, they are recognized with local, state and national awards in a variety of academic subjects; and WHEREAS, Furthermore, Herricks High School is a NAMM-designated Best Community for Music Education, and students are selected to attend national and statewide musical showcases and festivals annually; and WHEREAS, Under the able leadership of its Principal, James Ruck, Herricks High School is steadfastly committed to a student-centered environment that encourages students and teachers to be active participants in the world, working together to find solutions to relevant issues; and WHEREAS, Herricks High School has continually demonstrated an impressive dedication, an unparalleled devotion and an unremitting enthusiasm for the quality of educational programs and opportunities offered for the benefit of its faculty and students as well as for the entire community; and WHEREAS, The National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence Award stands as a resolute testimony to Herricks High School's standards of excellence, its uncompromising values, unparalleled dedication, and the special teamwork of its family of students, parents, teachers and administrators, who share common goals and uncommon expectations; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to congratulate Herricks High School upon the occasion of its designation as a National Blue Ribbon School by the United States Department of Education, noting the significance of its accomplishment and recognizing the role such effective schools play in shaping the quality of life in their community, State and Nation; and be it further RESOLVED, That copies of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to Principal James Ruck and Superintendent Dr. Fino Celano, Herricks High School.