Polly Rimer Duke, Friends Academy’s Upper School World Languages and Cultures department head, was recently honored by France after their Ministry of National Education bestowed upon Duke the Chevalier de la Légion d’honneur of the Ordres des Palmes Académiques.
Created in the time of Napoleon, this distinction of knighthood is awarded to those have made unusual and distinctive contributions to the broader professional field of French education and culture.
The Palmes Académíques is more typically given to university professors and is awarded following an extensive review process that is overseen by a committee in Paris.
“We should all extend our congratulations to her for achieving such eminence in her field,” said head of school Bill Morris.
Additionally, the committee reviewed Duke’s professional presentations, including published articles, as well as the conferences she has organized and participated in that have built bridges between secondary school teachers and university professors.
Committee members were also intrigued by the Martinique exchange and home-stay program that Duke coordinates each year between Friends Academy Upper School students and high school students from Martinique.
Enrolling 779 students from age 3 through Grade 12, Friends Academy is guided by its Quaker heritage and the principles of integrity, simplicity, patience, moderation and a peaceful resolution of conflict.
The school is located on 65 acres at the intersection of Piping Rock and Duck Pond roads in Locust Valley/Glen Cove. To learn more about the school or to schedule a tour, please visit the Friends Academy Web site, www.fa.org, their facebook page, www.facebook.com/friendsacademyNY or call (516) 676-0393.
