[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 10 (Friday, February 8, 2002)]
[Senate]
[Page S541]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




CONGRATULATIONS TO HIGHMORE, SD GRAND OPENING OF THE NEW HIGHMORE HIGH 
                                 SCHOOL

  Mr. DASCHLE. Mr. President, I would like to take this opportunity to 
congratulate the community of Highmore, SD, and the Highmore School 
District as they celebrate the grand opening of their new high school.
  Helping each child obtain the best possible education is more 
important than ever. While some of our Nation's schools are providing 
instruction at an exceptional level, others are simply not making the 
grade. Poor infrastructure and inadequate facilities can have an effect 
on student learning. When a school has a leaky roof, or holes in the 
walls, or other unsafe conditions, it sends a message to the students 
who attend that school that education is not really a high priority.
  Highmore is sending a different message to its children. Highmore's 
commitment to give its students a safe learning environment will have 
tremendous effects on this community for years to come. This community 
should be commended for its efforts to ensure every child in the 
district has access to a quality education, starting with a great 
school building.
  I am especially impressed by the determination of the school district 
and Superintendent Larry Gauer to see this project to completion. 
School Board President Julie Gutzmer, Vice Chairman Leroy Scott, board 
members Jim Frost, Ed Westcott, Jerry Dittman, Rod Kusser and Peggy 
Kroeplin, and the outstanding faculty and staff are all to be commended 
for their vision and dedication to this project.
  It is true that our Nation's future security depends on the soundness 
of its foundation. Our future will be strong and bright only if we help 
all of our children grow up to be well-educated, healthy, contributing 
citizens. I view public education as an investment in our national 
security, and I will continue my efforts to see that all students have 
access to a healthy, positive school environment that encourages them 
to learn and grow.
  But the Federal Government can only be a partner in this important 
effort. The efforts of dedicated people in communities like Highmore 
working together is what will make the difference for the youth of 
South Dakota and across the Nation. It is wonderful to see that the 
people of Highmore are making education a priority. I salute them for 
their foresight.

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