A Resolution congratulating and commending Broken Arrow Elementary School.
WHEREAS, Broken Arrow Elementary School, Shawnee Mission, has been
selected to receive a Blue Ribbon School Award; and
WHEREAS, Broken Arrow Elementary School was one of five Kansas
schools nominated by the Kansas State Department of Education for the na-
tional award. The school then was subjected to an on-site evaluation by rep-
resentatives of the U.S. Department of Education prior to receiving the national
award; and
WHEREAS, The Blue Ribbon Schools Program, which was established in
1982, honors elementary and secondary schools which demonstrate excellence
in eight areas of effective school principles. The process involves a thorough
self-evaluation by all members of the staff, and by students, parents and com-
munity representatives; and
WHEREAS, The criteria for selection placed a strong emphasis on improve-
ment as measured by the success of all students. The eight areas assessed were:
Student focus and support
The school develops and maintains programs to address the diversity of student needs.
Challenging standards and curriculum
The curriculum is researched based and challenges students to excel.
Teaching and active learning
The school develops students' love of learning, motivates them to study and maintains
an orderly environment.
Learning-centered school context
The climate of the school reflects its mission, fosters a sense of community and respect
for diversity, and develops an atmosphere that is conducive to learning and change.
Professional growth and collaboration
On-going professional development is available to all staff. Staff work as a team to make
decisions.
Leadership and organization vitality
The mission is clear: Everyone at Broken Arrow Goes for the Best. The principal is an
instructional leader. School improvement is an on-going process.
School, family and community partnerships
The school, parents, and community work together to meet the needs of all students.
Indicators of success
Broken Arrow students consistently perform above district, state and national norms:
Now, therefore,
Be it resolved by the Senate of the State of Kansas: That we congratulate
and commend Broken Arrow Elementary School, the faculty, students, parents
and concerned community members for such excellence in education; and
Be it further resolved: That the Secretary of the Senate be directed to
provide an enrolled copy of this resolution to Betsy Degen, Principal, Broken
Arrow Elementary School, 5901 Alden, Shawnee Mission, Kansas 66216.
Senate Resolution No. 1826 was sponsored by Senators Jordan, Becker, Bond,
Brownlee, Langworthy and Schraad.
I hereby certify that the above Resolution originated in the Senate, and
was adopted by that body