[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 157 (Wednesday, November 14, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2074]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                CONGRATULATING PRINCIPAL MICHAEL J. OTTO

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                            HON. SAM GRAVES

                              of missouri

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, November 14, 2001

  Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, it is with much pride that I rise today to 
congratulate one of Missouri's educators. With emphasis placed on the 
need to reform our public schools and ensure that our children receive 
quality instruction, it pleases me to know that Graden Elementary 
School is on the right path. I ask that you join me in congratulating 
Principal Michael J. Otto, recently named a recipient of the 2001 
National Distinguished Principals award.
  The U.S. Department of Education, along with the National Association 
of Elementary School Principals, began this program in 1984 to honor 
those principals that exemplify the vital leadership necessary to guide 
our school communities. Education Secretary Paige commented that, 
``Principals today--more than ever before--are critical leaders in the 
effort to improve America's public schools. I applaud these outstanding 
principals for their dedication, achievements, tirelessness, and 
leadership. I look forward io working with principals across the nation 
. . . to improve the performance of all students so that no child is 
left behind.'' I could not agree more with Secretary Paige's comments. 
I find it admirable that the recipients were nominated by their peers, 
further demonstrating the effects of their commitment to educational 
excellence.
  I am honored to represent a man who has given so much of himself to 
provide our schoolchildren not only with excellent instruction, but 
also inspiration. Again, I congratulate Principal Michael J. Otto and 
commend him for his diligent work on behalf of our schoolchildren.

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