Aubertine Receives Rural Schools Association ‘Appreciation Award’

Senator recognized for his commitment and work on behalf of rural schools across the state

WATERTOWN (July 13, 2010)—The New York State Rural Schools Association on Monday afternoon in Cooperstown honored state Sen. Darrel J. Aubertine with its annual Appreciation Award for his work on behalf of rural schools.

“We’d like to acknowledge the contributions the Senator is making as chair of the Rural Resources Commission and his continued support for both the Center for Rural Schools at Cornell and the Rural Education Advisory Committee,” said Lawrence A. Kiley, executive director of the Rural Schools Association. “It’s all indicative of the support the Senator is showing the small and rural school districts of New York State. Particularly in times like these, our association is appreciative of the fact that we have someone who advocates for and understands rural New York.”

The Appreciation Award is one of three annual awards given by the Association and is intended to honor the work done by an individual, usually an elected official, who has an important role to play in support of rural schools and can influence recognition of the work done in rural schools and help provide the resources schools need. Last year the Association presented this award to Assemblyman Bill Magee.

“Our rural schools are critical to any overall strategy to strengthen the economy of Upstate New York. Providing the necessary quality education our students deserve in these difficult times requires creativity,” Sen. Aubertine said. “I’m honored to receive this award from the Rural Schools Association and will continue to work with the association on behalf of our rural schools. The Rural Education Advisory Committee and the Center for Rural Schools are at the center of our efforts to find creative solutions to meet the needs of our students in the rural areas of New York State.”

The Association announced the award Monday with the winners of the Anne Z. Paulin Distinguished Service Award for a rural school board member and the William Deming Recognition Award for a rural school administrator.

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