[Congressional Record Volume 140, Number 56 (Tuesday, May 10, 1994)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov] [Congressional Record: May 10, 1994] From the Congressional Record Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov] EAST MANHATTAN SCHOOL FOR BRIGHT AND GIFTED CHILDREN TURNS 25 ______ HON. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of new york in the house of representatives Tuesday, May 10, 1994 Mrs. MALONEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to bring to the attention of my colleagues an institution in my district which has been serving the children of my community for 25 years. This spring marks the 25th anniversary of the East Manhattan School for Bright and Gifted Children, a small private educational facility for the teaching of brillant and talented children. Mr. Speaker, this wonderful school povides creative and educational support to children whose talents should not and cannot be stifled in conventional learning forums. During its 25 year existence, the East Manhattan School has nurtured and supported gifted children who have gone on to positions of prominence in art, music, theater, and academia. Founded 25 years ago by Irina Pigott, the East Manhattan School began as a unique nursery, kindergarten, and 1st grade facility. In the intervening years, it has expanded 1st to 3d grade and then to 6th. What makes this school so unique is that it is dedicated to not only encouraging giftedness in young children whose talents are already known, but to discovering and creating giftedness in very young children. Under Ms. Pigott's capable direction, the school has realized its full potential. Today, young brilliant and gifted children are learning chess, conversational French, algebra, and the use of computers in kindergarten. The East Manhattan School believes strongly in the educational philosophy that geniuses are not born, they are developed in the proper learning environment. This philosophy is based on the premise that almost all children, irrespective of their cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds, can develop a superior mind without sacrificing the joys of childhood. The goal of the school is not necessarily to produce an ``A'' student, but to produce gifted, independent, and creative human beings. Early childhood is the critical time to encourage this development. The many children who have grown immeasurably under the tutelage of the East Manhattan School are evidence of the importance of this philosophy. The East Manhattan School plans to celebrate their anniversary in a number of exciting ways. On May 19, renowned child and family psychiatrist Stanley Turecki will be a guest lecturer at the school. On May 25, the school will open a multimedia learning center on the premises which will have all the latest computer technology. It should be noted that this center was made possible through the generous support of NYNEX. And in the best tradition of community involvement for which the school is justly known, these premises will be open to all community children during after-school hours. Mr. Speaker, there is no more important work in the world than educating our Nation's children. It is no exaggeration to say that the future of the world is in the hands of the many committed and caring individuals who have given their lives to teaching. The East Manhattan School for Bright and Gifted Children represents a beacon of hope for the next generation of our Nation's leaders. That's why I hope my colleagues will join with me in congratulating the school on their 25th anniversary, and wishing them another 125 years of success and growth. ____________________