[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 62 (Wednesday, May 15, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E810]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    TRIBUTE TO DR. GERALD E. WRIGHT

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                         HON. JAMES E. CLYBURN

                           of south carolina

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, May 15, 2002

  Mr. CLYBURN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Dr. Gerald 
E. Wright of Denmark, South Carolina; a man who has dedicated his life 
to improving the educational opportunities and pursuits of young people 
in his community. For over thirty-five years, Dr. Wright has served the 
young people of his community and the State of South Carolina through 
his roles as a mentor, a teacher, and a superintendent.
  Dr. Gerald E. Wright began his quest for higher education at 
Morehouse College, where he received a degree in Mathematics. He 
matriculated at South Carolina State College where he earned masters 
and Doctorate degrees in Education.
  Dr. Wright began his career in education as a Mathematics Instructor 
at Voorhees College in 1965. He later held numerous positions, that 
included Federal Projects Coordinator, and Director of Support Programs 
for Denmark-Olar School District Two.
  In 1992, Dr. Wright became Superintendent of Denmark-Olar School 
District Two in Bamberg County, which is currently in my Congressional 
district. It was as Superintendent that he made some of his most 
indelible marks on the school system. His accomplishments include: the 
establishment of a JROTC Unit at Denmark-Olar High School, the 
initiation of block scheduling, the improvement of parent education 
through the PEP STEP Program, and the addition of a Coordinator of 
Student Services, among many others.
  He hired additional staff and teachers through Title I funds which 
included a School-to-Work Coordinator. He reinstated the music program, 
and reorganized the Gifted and Talented Program. Dr. Wright also 
implemented ``community involvement night'' giving parents and members 
of the community a forum to discuss pertinent issues affecting the 
school. Because of Dr. Wright's initiatives, High school students in 
his school district have had the opportunity to receive educational 
experiences in a more conducive environment. Dr. Wright is currently 
contributing to his community as an Instructor of Mathematics at 
Denmark Technical College.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my colleagues join me in honoring Dr. 
Gerald E. Wright, a man who deserves recognition for his role in 
improving the educational system of Bamberg County and South Carolina. 
I commend him on his dedication to others, and wish him Good Luck and 
Godspeed.

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