[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 67 (Wednesday, May 7, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E888]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     PAYING TRIBUTE TO JOLENE HYATT

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                           HON. SCOTT McINNIS

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                         Wednesday, May 7, 2003

  Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is my great privilege today to recognize 
an outstanding educator from my district. Jolene Hyatt of La Junta, 
Colorado is my state's nominee for the 2003 National Education 
Association Foundation Award for Teaching Excellence. Her fellow 
teachers nominated her not only for her skill in the classroom but also 
for her professional leadership and involvement in the community.
   Jolene has taught kindergarten in La Junta since 1975. She is a 
lifelong learner and advocate for education. Her dedication to her 
profession, her students, and her community is extraordinary. Jolene 
has served selflessly on a number of educational committees and 
organizations and is the past president of the La Junta Education 
Association. She currently contributes as a member of the La Junta 
Education Association's negotiations committee and is a member of the 
school improvement committee. She has been named to Who's Who Among 
American Teachers and is a recipient of the Heart of Learning Award, 
recognizing teachers who inspire students to learn and go the extra 
mile with students and parents after school hours.
   Mr. Speaker, Jolene has inspired and gone the extra mile for two 
generations of students in my district and plans to continue her work 
as an advocate when she retires from teaching. While she is now a 
candidate for the National Teacher of the Year Award, she prefers to 
direct attention away from herself and onto the children she helps to 
educate. Jolene's achievement and team spirit serves as an inspiration 
to her students, her peers, and her community. Her tireless dedication 
beyond the call of duty--both in and out of the classroom--has made La 
Junta and all of Colorado proud. Congratulations Jolene, and good luck 
with your future endeavors.




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