Gerald Green and Ryan Gomes Encourage Students to Stay in School During Visit to Grover Cleveland Middle School

BOSTON (November 3, 2005) - Boston Celtics rookies Gerald Green and Ryan Gomes visited Grover Cleveland Middle School in Dorchester today as part of a Stay in School assembly, honoring high-achieving students and encouraging all the children to take pride in their classroom work. Joining Green and Gomes at the assembly was WILD-FM personality Willie Maye.

"It is important for students to get the most out of their education," Gomes explained. "They need to realize that studying and staying in school is the most important thing they can do for themselves, and that it will help shape their future."

During today's assembly, and at other Stay in School assemblies throughout the academic year, Celtics players deliver a special message to students that includes the use of the acronym PRIDE - P for positive mental attitude, R for respect, I for intelligent choices, D for dreams, and E for effort and education.

The Boston Celtics Stay in School program is in its 15th year and is a collaborative effort between the team, the New England Sports Museum and Boston Public Schools. At assemblies throughout the academic year, Celtics players will visit schools to help motivate students to work hard and stay in school, and at the end of each year, top students will be honored for academic achievement and perfect attendance.