city notes Graveraet named a National Blue Ribbon School
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he U.S. Dept. of Education recently announced that Graveraet Elementary School in Marquette has been designated as an “Exemplary High Performing Schools National Blue Ribbon School” for 2021 by the U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona. Graveraet is one of 325 schools in the nation, one of 13 schools from Michigan, and, to the best of our knowledge, the only school in the Upper Peninsula to be recognized with this prestigious award. Sarah Kemppainen, principal of Graveraet, said, “I am so proud of our entire staff, all our students and families, everyone here at Graveraet Elementary School, because we all have made a conscious effort and priority over the past seven years to focus on what matters most, meeting the needs of the whole child,” said Kemppainen. “When students feel safe, have trust in and with us, and know that there are teachers and staff who genuinely care for and love them, they are able to challenge themselves and grow academically, socially and emotionally.” Interim Superintendent Zack Sedgwick expressed congratulations to the students, staff and families of Graveraet Elementary School for the prestigious honor. “This award is testament to their hard work and dedication and I couldn’t be more proud of their accomplishment!” Sedgwick said.
Houghton, Hancock named Cities of Peace
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n October, Houghton and Hancock became a member of the “International Cities of Peace.” Keweenaw Faiths United, a collaborative of several faith communities in the area, spearheaded the project with the support of both ciies and their rotary clubs, along with endorsements from many residents. The application the organization submitted to Cities of Peace highlighted international students and faculty at both Michigan Tech and Finlandia University; the annual Parade of Nations, Heikinpaiva, and other international events; Hancock’s sister city, Porvoo, Finland; International Neighbors; Rotary Exchange Students and more, as evidence of the diversity of the community. The International Cities of Peace organization is dedicated to building “a global culture of peace” by focusing on the community level. International Cities of Peace describes itself as “an association of citizens, governments and organizations who have established their communities as official Cities of Peace. Every community has a legacy of peace, whether it is by a historical event or by a local peace heroes or groups who have contributed to their citizen’s safety, prosperity and quality of life.” Houghton and Hancock have become the 337th and 338th cities, respectively, from around the world to receive the International Cities of Peace designation. Keweenaw Faiths United was formed in 2019 to respond to rac-
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Marquette Monthly
November 2021
The neighboring communities of Houghton and Hancock were recently named International Cities of Peace, becoming the 337th and 338th cities to receive the distinction. (Photo by City of Houghton, Creative Commons)
