H. Frank Carey High School has become one of 15 schools selected by New York State from 35 applicants as a New York State Blue Ribbon School of Excellence. This is phase I of a three-part process that Carey High School has successfully completed. The second phase is a review of Carey's application by the National Review Panel in Washington, which will take place in January. If Carey is successful in passing that hurdle, it will move to Part III in which it will receive a site visit between March and April, and ultimately could secure a position as a National School of Excellence.

Carey's administration and staff had been preparing the application since last summer. A total of 35 single spaced typewritten pages covering every aspect of school life and education was required.

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Goldstein added: "Clearly, for all the struggles we face - for the wide range of frustrations we have endured in the past year - we are a district which is achieving excellence. This is a moment for the entire Sewanhaka community to feel much well deserved pride." In a message to Principal Thomas Dolan and his staff, Dr. Goldstein added: "I can assure you of every possible support, both personally and from Central Administration. We intend to present you, your students and the Franklin Square community to the nation as the true Environment of Excellence that you are."

The Sewanhaka Central High School District now has four National Schools of Excellence. If Carey High School joins this group, Sewanhaka will become the only district in New York State with five Presidential Flags and will be known as a National District of Excellence.