of Governor Herbert R. O'Conor 513

is highly important that the fundamental precepts of morality be presented to
those committed, to our care. Closely related to this objective are the character
building activities developed largely here through your Student Council and
Girl Reserve Organizations. These adjuncts to the conventional and formal •
program of training are beneficial in the gradual adjustments to society which
must be effected.

The emphasis on the fourth objective commands our interest and attention
today and is of equal importance to the other three. The Vocational Building,
which I now dedicate in the name of all our people, is, in effect, the expression of
the desire that those placed in our care shall be suitably trained to become self-
supporting and to pursue useful and honorable vocations and occupations.

I judge the building to be architecturally suitable, structurally sound, and
adequately equipped. It is true that vocational training has played a major
part in the work and development of the school for years. And the success of
those endeavors points the way and justified the establishment of the excellent
building we dedicate today.

The former facilities, while fairly adequate when the school was removed
to this historic site and when a total of 76 girls were cared for, became totally
insufficient for the present population of 128. During the past seven years,
there has been a gradual increase in the population, indicating that the work
of the school has met with the approval of committing officers. And so the
State Government, with the approval of the General Assembly, has deemed it
. necessary to provide this building at 'a cost of $90, 000, including equipment.

I was glad to recommend the establishment of these facilities, which indi-
cated the interest I have in the realization of the objectives of the school. In
this new building will be taught sewing, factory work, laundry, arts and crafts,
beauty parlor operation, and the practical aspects of home economics—study of
preparation and serving of foods, food values in relation to health, child care
and training for domestic work. It will be noted that not only are these voca-
tions congenial to the trainees, but are essentially practical occupations, and
those in which employment can be readily obtained when the girls leave the
school. I understand that the opportunities for employment are in excess of
the individuals available. This speaks well for the efficiency of the training
received here.

In addition to facilities for vocational training, there has been installed on
the upper floor of the building a modern hospital. The State assumes no less a
responsibility for the physical well-being than for the moral and mental de-
velopment of those committed to its care. The physical necessities to meet this
problem have been provided in this building, and under competent nursing and
medical care, all precautions have been taken for health protection.

It would seem, therefore, that the school has now developed a well-rounded
and complete program with adequate facilities for the mental, moral and
physical well-being of the trainees. In conclusion, I wish to congratulate the
Board on the sound and progressive policies they have established, and to
feliciate the Superintendent on her efficient administration of the affairs of the
school.