[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 81 (Wednesday, June 5, 1996)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1002]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       TRIBUTE TO FRED RICHARDSON

                                 ______


                            HON. FRED UPTON

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, June 5, 1996

  Mr. UPTON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor an accomplished 
educator, a community leader, and a dear friend, Mr. Fred Richardson. 
After 38 quality years spent in school systems across Michigan and 
Indiana, Mr. Richardson will be stepping down this year as 
superintendent of St. Joseph Public Schools.
  Mr. Richardson began his education career as a teacher in 1958 in 
Shipshewana, IN. He was quickly promoted to principal and spent time at 
the helm of a number of schools in Indiana before returning to teach 
and become principal in Fennville in his native Michigan. After 
spending many years with the Hillsdale Community Schools, he was 
eventually recognized for his talents and promoted to superintendent.
  In 1982, he left Hillsdale to assume the same role in the St. Joseph 
Public Schools. During his tenure there he was able to turn the cash 
strapped organization around, balancing the system's books and creating 
an abundance of financial reserves. In fact, the district just recently 
became debt free thanks in part to Mr. Richardson's guidance.
  Praised by staff, faculty, and school boards, Mr. Richardson has 
always cared most about the kids. Time and time again, his efforts with 
the children of Michigan have earned him high marks. A truly first-
class individual, Mr. Richardson has also found time in his busy 
schedule to share his experience with the next generation of educators 
by teaching at Western Michigan University.
  As Fred enters this next stage of his life, my wife Amey joins me in 
wishing him a long and healthy retirement. Thank you, Fred, for so many 
great years of quality service to southwest Michigan. Mr. Speaker, 
please join me in congratulating Fred Richardson on his retirement from 
a remarkable, 38-year-long career in education.

                          ____________________