[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 65 (Wednesday, May 20, 1998)]
[Senate]
[Pages S5242-S5243]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   TRIBUTE TO NICHOLAS ``NICK'' LEIST

 Mr. BOND. Mr. President, across our great nation there are 
thousands of teachers dedicated to the development of young minds. In 
Missouri, as a former Governor and U.S. Senator, I have had the 
opportunity to meet many educators and have a great deal

[[Page S5243]]

of admiration for their commitment to our youth.
  I have found, however, some teachers are special and go beyond the 
call of duty to lead their students toward a rewarding and productive 
life. Today, I rise to speak about one such teacher who is retiring 
this year, Nicholas ``Nick'' Leist.
  For thirty-six years Mr. Leist has dedicated his life teaching music 
to young people in Missouri. Mr. Leist has not only been an educator, 
he has been a friend and inspiration to literally thousands of 
students. Over the last thirty years, he has taught more than 9,000 
students at Jackson High School, and his musicians have had a 
phenomenal record, having achieved twenty-seven consecutive number one 
ratings at district music contests. More than eight dozen students have 
gone on to become teachers themselves, following in the steps of their 
mentor.
  On May 5, 1998, Mr. Leist conducted his last Jackson High School band 
concert which brought tears to the eyes of students and their Mr. 
Leist. They will miss Nick Leist at Jackson High School next year; 
however, the impact he had on students will live on for generations 
through the people he inspired to greater personal heights. I join the 
many who wish Mr. Leist happiness in the years to come.

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