[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 14 (Thursday, February 14, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E146]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                           NATIONAL TRIO DAY

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. RUBEN HINOJOSA

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, February 13, 2002

  Mr. HINOJOSA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of a wonderful 
program that has helped and encouraged young people in my District and 
all over this country to complete their education. I am speaking of the 
TRIO Program.
  In the 15th Congressional District, we are plagued with high drop out 
rates among our youth. In fact, the recent figures published by the 
U.S. Census Bureau show that 78% of Texans do not have a college 
degree. This is a tremendous waste of human capital and talent, and we 
must continue to find innovative ways to tap into this underdeveloped 
potential.
  One program that is making inroads into this problem is the TRIO 
program. TRIO is made up of several programs including Upward Bound, 
Upward Bound Math Science, Talent Search, and Student Support Services. 
These programs promote educational excellence in at-risk students 
through mentoring, counseling, and support. The goal is to make sure 
that these students stay in school so they can complete their education 
and become part of the American dream.
  I especially want to bring to your attention the work that is being 
done by the TRIO programs run by the University of Texas Pan American, 
Texas A&M Kingsville, South Texas Community College, and Coastal Bend 
Community College. These dedicated schools in my District are committed 
to seeing that every student has the opportunity to receive a higher 
education.
  February 23, 2002 has been designated National TRIO Day. I urge my 
colleagues to take this opportunity to visit their local TRIO programs 
and encourage these students and the teachers and counselors who are 
dedicated to their success.

                          ____________________