Southeast Queens High School Honors Congressman Meeks

PRESS RELEASE

May 19, 2011

Southeast Queens High School Honors Congressman Meeks

(WASHINGTON, DC)–Last week, August Martin High School presented Congressman Gregory W. Meeks with its certificate of appreciation for his role in helping to partner a major telecommunications firm with the high school's Communication Arts Academy. The collaboration led to the updating of the academy's studio facilities with state-of-art media production technology, as well as curriculum development, and technology skill building with students.

“I am truly honored,” Congressman Meeks said. He stressed that his main objective is the help students at August Martin High School live out the Communication Arts Academy's motto: “Where Technology and Imagination Create Endless Possibilities.” He added: "This can't be done with outmoded technology. In our day and age, young people should be encouraged to understand the potential advanced technology and to master it. August Martin students, as well as students throughout the Sixth Congressional District, need sustained opportunities to mesh their hopes and aspirations with hands-on exposure to cutting edge communications and information technology.”

That this is so was evidenced in the comment senior Gregory Bethea made to a reporter: "Before I just wanted to be a rapper. But going to the studio and seeing how everything works made me want to be an audio engineer not just focus on rapping."

Principal Anthony Cromer said programs like this motivate the students. "We predict higher grad rates, better attendance, and look for big things from the kids in Communication Arts Academy.”

An appreciation certificate was also presented to Michael Cox, legislative assistant to Congressman Meeks.
The studio will be named after the late Councilman Thomas White whose family attended August Martin. White was also instrumental in persuading the city government to make improvements to the studio.