[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 31 (Wednesday, March 12, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E443]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




          IN RECOGNITION OF THE LA PORTE EDUCATION FOUNDATION

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. KEN BENTSEN

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, March 12, 1997

  Mr. BENTSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the good work of the La 
Porte Education Foundation and to congratulate foundation members as 
they prepare for the fourth annual Education Celebration Event on March 
13, 1997. The foundation's efforts to improve educational opportunities 
are forging a stronger community today and building a brighter future 
for our children.
  The foundation's mission is to strengthen the La Porte community 
through education. A nonprofit organization operating separately from 
the La Porte School System, the foundation funds innovative, creative, 
and instructional projects for both students and teachers in La Porte 
schools.
  The La Porte Education Foundation was established in 1993 because the 
community understood that there is a strong linkage between the quality 
of life in La Porte and the quality of its education system. Its 
organizers understand that, sometimes, the best way to meet a challenge 
is to roll up your sleeves and get involved.
  The foundation's endowment has provided a steady, new source of funds 
outside the general revenue fund for expanding the educational 
opportunities available to La Porte's students. And it has worked.
  The La Porte Foundation Board decided early on that the entire 
community needed to be actively involved in the foundation's efforts to 
enhance education in La Porte schools. As a means to involve citizens, 
the board chose to sponsor an event which would celebrate public 
education in La Porte on an annual basis. The first celebration was 
held at Sylvan Beach Pavilion and was developed and presented by a 
foundation committee consisting of teachers, community members, PTO and 
area industry representatives, and foundation board members. The first 
celebration was an overwhelming success with over 1,000 citizens 
enjoying booths from each school and entertainment from many students.
  The second annual celebration was moved to La Porte High School to 
accommodate large crowds. Now in the fourth year, this year's 
celebration will highlight grant projects by LPISD teachers which were 
funded by the foundation. This unique event continues to draw 
enthusiastic crowds numbering over 1,000 each year.
  I wish the foundation continued success as they celebrate another 
Education Celebration Event and continue their mission to improve the 
education and lives of the children of La Porte.

                          ____________________