HR188: Commending Hilton Elementary School.


HOUSE RESOLUTION NO. 188
Offered March 4, 2020
Commending Hilton Elementary School.
Patron-- Price

WHEREAS, Hilton Elementary School, an academic institution in the Newport News City Public Schools division, celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2019; and

WHEREAS, built in 1919 on farm land that was once owned by the Hilton family, Hilton Elementary School has witnessed a century of tremendous growth and change in Newport News; and

WHEREAS, originally heated by a coal furnace, students at Hilton Elementary School would help custodial staff clear out ash piles in the school’s early days; and

WHEREAS, over the years, additions and improvements helped Hilton Elementary School better accommodate its students, faculty, and administration, including new classrooms, an office, and a lounge in 1952; a cafeteria in the 1960s; a major renovation in the 1970s; and a gym and art room in 2001; and

WHEREAS, since the 1960s, fifth grade students participating in the Hilton Elementary School safety patrol have fostered the school’s community spirit by helping their younger peers transition safely between home and school at the beginning and end of the day; additionally, they open and close fire doors, help students with carrying their belongings, tie shoes, and read the breakfast menu to younger students, among other helpful tasks; and

WHEREAS, Hilton Elementary School currently serves children of the Hilton Village community while serving as home to Newport News City Public Schools’ Communication Arts Magnet Program, which provides a comprehensive academic program with a focus on reading, writing, and oral communication; and

WHEREAS, the original bell used at Hilton Elementary School was salvaged and enshrined in front of the school in the early 2000s, memorializing the academic institution’s long and storied past; and

WHEREAS, for over 100 years, innumerable students and staff at Hilton Elementary School have contributed to a lively and vibrant learning environment in Newport News; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED by the House of Delegates, That Hilton Elementary School hereby be commended on the occasion of its 100th anniversary; and, be it

RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to Annette Walls, principal of Hilton Elementary School, as an expression of the House of Delegates’ admiration for the school’s history and its tradition of excellence.