[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 67 (Wednesday, May 16, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E811]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   HONORING THE MUSIC MAN, DR. THOMAS HAMMETT--A REMARKABLE EDUCATOR

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                             HON. ZACH WAMP

                              of tennessee

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, May 16, 2001

  Mr. WAMP. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to talk about an exceptional 
teacher in my district--Dr. Thomas Hammett. Dr. Hammett teaches chorus 
and drama at Lookout Valley High School and is also the Director of 
Music at Rivermont Presbyterian Church. I think it is particularly 
fitting to honor Dr. Hammett the same week we are debating H.R. 1, the 
No Child Left Behind Act of 2001.
  Dr. Thomas Hammett has continually demonstrated character education 
in the classroom long before the term was ever coined. Many of his 
students believe he invented the phrase. Not only does he teach music; 
he teaches character, morals and how to live life.
  He has made a significant difference in the lives of so many of his 
students. He teaches them that music can break down barriers in a way 
that nothing else can. It can break down prejudice and indifference and 
it crosses racial lines. Dr. Hammett is a man of Christ and is never 
afraid to demonstrate his faith despite the consequences. Without his 
dedication many of his students wouldn't be where they are today.
  I have heard from a number of Dr. Hammett's students and their words 
tell the story better than I could.
  Rebekah Griffits said,
  ``Dr. Hammett has made a huge difference in my life and I am a better 
person because of his example and teachings. I love him like a father 
and appreciate his listening ear, time and advice more than he will 
ever know.''
  Michael Langston states,
  ``Dr. Hammett has been an outstanding role model for me. He has taken 
many days out of his personal life to help me succeed in chorus. I 
don't know many teachers who would take a single student to All-State 
auditions and performances.''
  I am proud to have him teaching in my district. Keep up the good work 
Dr. Hammett--you are a perfect example of why character education works 
and a role model for other teachers who dedicate their lives to 
teaching America's children. I commend you and your wife, Faye, and 
your four daughters, Charity, Emily, Stephanie and Rosalie.

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