[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 90 (Wednesday, June 18, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1291]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




     TRIBUTE TO MR. CARL NOVAK OF TECUMSEH, MI, EXCEPTIONAL TEACHER

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                            HON. NICK SMITH

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, June 18, 2003

  Mr. SMITH of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, education is the key for our 
Nation's future prosperity and security. The formidable responsibility 
of molding and inspiring young minds to the avenues of hope, 
opportunity and achievement rests partly in the hands of our teachers. 
Today I would like to recognize a teacher from Tecumseh, Michigan that 
most influenced and motivated exceptional students in academics and 
leadership that were winners of the LeGrand Smith scholarship.
  Mr. Carl Novak teaches mathematics at Tecumseh High School. He is 
credited for instilling in students an enthusiasm for mathematics. In 
one student's own words, ``Mr. Novak has continually challenged me to 
do my best throughout high school. His vast knowledge of mathematics, 
and his dedication to family and community displayed positive character 
and professionalism.'' The respect and gratitude of his students speaks 
well of Mr. Novak's ability to challenge young minds to stretch the 
mental muscles and strive to achieve the best that is in them.
  Mr. Novak's excellence in teaching challenges and inspires students 
to move beyond the teen-age tendency toward surface study and encourage 
deeper thought and connections to the real world. No profession is more 
important in its influence and daily interaction with the future 
leaders of our community and our country, and Carl Novak's impact on 
his students is certainly deserving of recognition.
  On behalf of the Congress of the United States of America, I am proud 
to extend our highest praise to Mr. Carl Novak as a master teacher. We 
thank him for his continuing dedication to teaching and his willingness 
and ability to challenge and inspire students for leadership and 
success.

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