[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 81 (Tuesday, June 18, 2002)]
[Senate]
[Page S5690]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    TRIBUTE TO TOBY MILBERG NEEDLER

 Mrs. CLINTON. Madam President, I rise today to honor Toby 
Milberg Needler, an outstanding New Yorker, who has served the students 
of New York City's public schools for more than 30 years. On June 27, 
2002, Ms. Needler will retire from her position as Vice Principal of 
the esteemed Washington Irving High School where she also served as 
Director of the school's distinguished Arts program.
  The success of the Arts Program is largely the result of Ms. 
Needler's dedication and resolve. Skillfully combining the support of 
private business with her education plan, established an inspiring 
level of credibility with her supervisors and peers. This greatly 
benefited the program she both developed and administered.
  She was most revered, however, for the special relationships she 
developed with her students. Ms. Needler has been a listener, a 
protector, an advocate and a constant source of energy for young people 
who confront the challenges that adolescence may bring.
  Ms. Needler's career is marked by her creative effort to integrate 
the world of arts into the lives of her students. Many of those who are 
familiar with the Washington Irving High School's Arts Program, 
attribute its success to Ms. Needler's vision, hard work and 
commitment. Since her arrival the program has expanded beyond bounds. 
Nearly 100 percent of its graduates are admitted to four-year colleges. 
We owe a great debt of gratitude to Ms. Needler's dedication.
  Ms. Needler's legacy will endure in the hearts and minds of those 
whose lives she touched. I commend Ms. Needler for her tremendous 
achievements. She exemplifies the high-quality of teaching and public 
service that we aspire to instill in all those dedicated individuals 
entrusted with the education of our nation's young people.




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