[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 45 (Friday, April 2, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E511]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     IN RECOGNITION OF KEVIN BAKER

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. ROY BLUNT

                              of missouri

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, April 1, 2004

  Mr. BLUNT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a man who has 
distinguished himself as a dedicated and dynamic educator. Kevin Baker 
of Springfield, Missouri, is not only an eighth grade social studies 
teacher and basketball coach, but an innovator and motivator. For the 
past 20 years, Baker has found ingenious ways to recreate American 
history for his students at Pershing Middle School while motivating 
them to become responsible, caring individuals. Baker's tireless 
efforts to help his students meet their full potential helps build 
active and responsible citizens with unwavering values and discipline.
  Kevin Baker is perceived by the students and staff of Pershing Middle 
School as the most patriotic person they have ever met. Everyday he 
arrives at school adorned in red, white and blue attire and drives a 
vehicle covered with U.S. flags. But Baker's patriotism is not simply 
for show. His love for this country is demonstrated each day as he 
shares his passion for American history. Baker pushes his students to 
excel academically and socially, and commands respect by his unfailing 
integrity and enthusiasm. His positive attitude is contagious.
  Learning social studies is ``fun'' in Kevin Baker's classroom. Every 
year Baker takes the eighth grade students at Pershing on a field trip 
to Wilson's Creek National Battlefield. For weeks beforehand, Baker 
drills his students, transforming them into a well-trained army that 
marches with wooden muskets to noted battlefield locations. In addition 
to his efforts to bring the Civil War to life, Baker also organizes and 
chaperones over 150 students on a trip to Washington, D.C. during 
Spring Break. This annual trip, which Baker initiated during his first 
year at Pershing, has long since become an institution. This year will 
mark his 20th student trip to our Nation's Capital.
  Kevin Baker not only encourages his students, but also other 
teachers. His professionalism and expertise as a master educator in 
social studies is regarded highly by his community. Baker spends his 
summers planning and writing new Power Point presentations to 
complement the district's social studies curriculum, and his peers 
often ask him to share these presentations, as well as other classroom 
teaching techniques and tools, at district professional development 
meetings.
  Kim Finch, the principal at Pershing Middle School, praises Kevin 
Baker as a bright, inquisitive and multi-talented teacher who enables 
his students to blossom academically. Finch also commends Baker as a 
positive role model for both students and staff, practicing daily in 
his own life what he teaches in the classroom.
  Springfield and Pershing Middle School are lucky to call Kevin Baker 
one of their own. He is a valuable and cherished member of our 
community and nation.

                          ____________________