[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 62 (Wednesday, May 15, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E805-E806]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        HONORING JOSEPH FORLENZA

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. DALE E. KILDEE

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, May 15, 2002

  Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Joseph Forlenza 
who will retire in June of this year after 41 years serving as a 
teacher, coach, or principal in the Catholic school system. He has 
spent the last 28 years as principal of Powers Catholic High School in 
my hometown of Flint, Michigan. He will be honored with a special 
ceremony on May 18th for his outstanding achievements in education.
  Joseph Forlenza graduated with a BA in History and Business from St. 
Joseph College in Indiana in 1961. That year he become a teacher and a 
coach at Mendel Catholic High school in Chicago, Illinois. When he 
first began to work his intention was to earn money for law school. 
However, a love for teaching and coaching the next generation overcame 
the desire to follow a career in law. He went on to earn a Masters 
degree in History in 1967 and a Masters degree in Secondary School 
Administration in 1971 both from Eastern Michigan University.
  As the Powers Catholic High School principal, Joseph Forlenza has 
made a lasting mark on the educational system. Under his leadership, 
Powers Catholic High School has earned a reputation as an exceptional 
institution. The parents, students and staff are continuing the 
tradition of excellence started by Joe Forlenza. He has created a 
welcoming atmosphere for students and at the same time worked to 
support the staff in their classroom roles. He has remained true to the 
goal of helping students learn, analyze, and prepare for life's 
challenges. He has achieved this by presenting students with real life 
problems and formal classroom instruction. His commitment to the 
students has been rewarded as many graduates of Powers Catholic High 
School have gone on to become leaders in their respective communities 
and fields. He will leave Powers High School but the traditions that he 
created will live on.

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  Mr. Speaker, I ask the House of Representatives to join me in 
praising Joseph Forlenza for his enthusiasm and pledge to strive for 
excellence in the development of education and life. I wish him the 
best in the upcoming years.

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