SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 187

WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas is pleased to join the residents of Houston's Galena Park community in celebrating the placement of a Texas Historical Marker commemorating the legacy and many achievements of the Fidelity Manor schools; and

WHEREAS, The Fidelity Manor schools can trace their origins to the 1930s, when a building formerly used by white students was moved to the Fidelity addition neighborhood, named for the Fidelity shipyard; the school, which housed eight grades, began receiving African American students, and by 1947 it had grown to include 10 classrooms, a library, and other improvements; and

WHEREAS, Fidelity School added high school courses in 1950, leading to the construction of a separate high school building in 1955; Fidelity Manor High School students excelled in academics and extracurricular activities, winning district and state championships in several sports; and

WHEREAS, The introduction of desegregation led to the closing of the Fidelity Manor schools in 1970, but their dedication to providing invaluable educational opportunities for African American children for nearly 50 years continues to be remembered; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 81st Legislature, hereby pay tribute to the legacy of the Fidelity Manor schools and their impact on the Galena Park community; and, be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared in honor of this special occasion.

Gallegos

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President of the Senate

I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on February 11, 2009.

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Secretary of the Senate

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Member, Texas Senate