III 110th CONGRESS 2d Session S. RES. 544 IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES May 1, 2008 Mr. Hatch (for himself, Mrs. Clinton, Mr. Cochran, and Mr. Sanders) submitted the following resolution; which was considered and agreed to RESOLUTION Designating May 5 through 9, 2008, as National Substitute Teacher Recognition Week.

Whereas, on average, as much as 1 full year of a child's elementary and secondary education is taught by substitute teachers; Whereas, on any given day in the United States, more than 270,000 classes are taught by substitute teachers; Whereas formal training of substitute teachers has been shown to improve the quality of education, lower school district liability, reduce the number of student and faculty complaints, and increase retention rates of substitute teachers; Whereas a strong, effective system of education for all children and youth is essential to our Nation’s continued strength and prosperity; Whereas much of a child's growth and progress can be attributed to the efforts of dedicated teachers and substitute teachers who are entrusted with the child's educational development; Whereas substitute teachers play a vital role in maintaining continuity of instruction and a positive learning environment in the absence of a permanent classroom teacher; and Whereas substitute teachers should be recognized for their dedication and commitment: Now, therefore, be it

That the Senate— (1)designates May 5 through 9, 2008, as the 7th annual National Substitute Teacher Recognition Week; (2)recognizes the important and vital role substitute teachers play in a child's education; and (3)encourages educational institutions to observe the week with appropriate events and activities.