Contact: Colleen Roche (212) 788-2958 or Nydia Negron (212) 788-9364
As the new school year was beginning, Mayor Giuliani offered a special welcome to the students and told them about the joy of learning.
"Once you understand the wonder and power of knowledge, you will find that your studies can be just as exciting and just as rewarding as sports, parties or music," the Mayor said. "You will find that learning can be the greatest joy of your existence, a joy not only of the moment, but a joy that will serve you and help you to succeed throughout your entire life. Your education is the key to your success and it is the learners who will inherit the future."
The Mayor also expressed his appreciation for the dedication of parents and teachers to improve education in New York City and praised Chancellor Rudy Crew's commitment to excellence.
"The coming school year will be filled with many challenges and opportunities for our city's school children." said Mayor Giuliani. "Our challenge is to start making changes now that will benefit today's youngsters and the generations to follow."
Chancellor Rudy Crew also spoke to the schoolchildren. "You fill us with hope for the future and inspire us with your dreams for a better world," the Chancellor said. "Soon you will be our artists, teachers and scientists, our doctors, nurses, and lawyers. And some of you will be Mayors of New York and Chancellors of the public school system. As long as we stand by you today, you'll be whatever you want to be. And join me this morning in calling on your parents, the entire school community and the business community to become part of the campaign to insure our children read well by the end of the third grade and learn in safe, secure, comfortable schools."
Deputy Mayor Ninfa Segarra pointed out that "parents and educators have made positive contributions to our public school system and this morning we acknowledge your dedication and welcome your involvement in the upcoming school year. Reforming our schools requires energy and dedication. Here in New York City we have that energy and commitment."
Also joining the celebration of education and learning were principals, community school board superintendents, school board presidents, union officials, parents and children.
Entertainment was provided by "The Steppers" from the Jackie Robinson Center for Physical Culture. Sponsors for the breakfast included Temco Service Industries, Inc., Modell's, BMG Music, The Gap, NY Knicks, NY Jets and the Department of Environmental Protection.