January 27, 2012
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

For more information:
Melissa Reeves, mdreeves@jeffco.k12.co.us, Jeffco Public Schools, 303-982-6567
Lynn Setzer, lsetzer@jeffco.k12.co.us, Jeffco Public Schools, 303-982-6810

WHAT:  School honored for patriotism
WHEN:  TODAY ~ Friday, Jan. 27 at 2:15 p.m.
WHERE:  O’Connell Middle School, 1275 S. Teller Pl., Lakewood 80232

O’CONNELL MIDDLE SCHOOL IS PROUD TO BE AMERICAN
The local Korean War Veterans Association, Denver Chapter #195, selected Jeffco’s O’Connell Middle School for the 2011 Proud To Be An American award for the school’s exceptional practice and promotion of the patriotic spirit of American heritage.

The annual patriotic award is presented to an individual or individuals who demonstrate their patriotism to the principles, rights and privileges that are inherent to Americans.

For over 18 years, thousands of O’Connell students and staff have honored Veterans in an annual student assembly that recognizes current and past soldiers for their dedicated service.

O’Connell now hosts an annual Naturalization Day and U.S. Constitution Day.  

“This school’s annual program is program deserving of this honorary award,” said William B. Baldaccini, Korean War Veterans, Denver Chapter #195.  “The award allows us to show our appreciation for the school’s effort to promote the spirit of being a proud American.”