[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 172 (Wednesday, December 12, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E2255-E2256]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




            IN RECOGNITION OF CHARLES COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. STENY H. HOYER

                              of maryland

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, December 11, 2001

  Mr. HOYER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to give recognition to Charles 
County public schools. The Charles County public schools received the 
Daisy Bates National School District Award for its minority achievement 
program. Under the direction of Superintendent James E. Richmond, 
Charles County public schools have made the success of all students a 
major priority, and addressing the performance of minority students is 
a major component of this effort. Charles County public schools has 
developed a 5-year plan for academic achievement, personal 
responsibility,

[[Page E2256]]

and career readiness. In this plan, everyone is responsible for 
successful attainment of the objectives. The superintendent, board 
members, instructional staff, principals, certificated and support 
staff, all play major roles in addressing the ``success for all'' 
approach.
  Designing programs that best meet the needs of the students is a 
major key of their success. In order to make programs like these work, 
systems must first look at the needs of the students and then develop 
the programs. Charles County public schools sought to fit the program 
to the students, not the students to the program. Their programs are 
successful because of the dedication and commitment of their teachers. 
They truly believe that all children can and will learn to read if 
given instruction and additional time to read and write in an 
environment that supports and challenges them. This system provides 
continuous training for teachers and assistants, limits class size, and 
provides current, appealing, and appropriate materials for their 
schools.
  Mr. Speaker, and colleagues, please join with me in wishing the 
Charles County public schools continued success and congratulations on 
their achievements toward the academic success of their students.

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