[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 16 (Tuesday, February 10, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E141]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   HONORING THE LIFE OF J.R. RICHARDS

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. LOIS CAPPS

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, February 10, 2004

  Mrs. CAPPS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the remarkable life of 
J.R. Richards. J.R. was an exemplary leader in my community, the 23rd 
Congressional District. I had the pleasure of knowing and working 
alongside J.R. during my time as a school nurse in the Santa Barbara 
School Districts.
  As a teacher, he devoted his life to public education, through which 
he daily strove to serve young people. In this capacity, he taught 
mathematics; and many of his students have commented to me on how 
interesting and dynamic he made the subject for them. J.R. told me once 
that his greatest pleasure came from drawing out math skills from a 
classroom of students for whom math was particularly challenging. As 
one of the most dedicated teachers in the Santa Barbara School 
Districts, he embodied the highest principles of the teaching 
profession.-
  J.R.'s teaching extended beyond the required classroom curriculum. He 
challenged not only his students but also his colleagues to strive to 
achieve their highest potential. His role as a teacher was expanded to 
one of a friend, mentor and confidant to multitudes of his students, 
their families and the school staff and faculty.
  When J.R. became principal of Santa Barbara High School in 1995 he 
came not as an outsider but as a leader among his peers. He was one of 
the family. He had graduated from the school in 1957 and in some ways 
never left. In his new position, he brought a light and warmth to the 
campus that enabled all students of all backgrounds to feel welcome. In 
return for his dedication, he has left a lasting impression on all of 
his students who feel his impact on their lives today. Each person who 
recalls J.R. Richards holds close at heart that welcoming, affirming 
``DON'' standing in the halls before class. He inspired confidence, 
urging each of us to strive to be the very best we can. We won't let 
you down J.R. You mean too much to us.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask that today we join with J.R.'s family in mourning 
the passing of this exceptional man, whose presence will be greatly 
missed.

                          ____________________