[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 56 (Wednesday, April 28, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E695]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




COMMENDING SANTA MARIA HIGH SCHOOL FOR RECEIVING THE COLLEGE BOARD 2004 
                           INSPIRATION AWARD

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. LOIS CAPPS

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, April 28, 2004

  Ms. CAPPS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to an 
extraordinary accomplishment by one of the Central Coast's finest 
educational institutions: Santa Maria High School (SMHS).
  I am delighted to report that SMHS will receive the College Board 
2004 Inspiration Award for its steadfast commitment to fostering 
student success in one of America's most socioeconomically challenged 
communities. To meet each student's personal needs, the staff has been 
deeply involved in developing a variety of innovative methods to reach 
students and improve learning and success in a diverse and dynamic 
setting. A distinguished panel of Inspiration Award judges selected 
Santa Maria High School based on the school's success in increasing the 
number of student's preparation for college.
  While many SMHS students are children of migrant farm workers who 
never had the opportunity to graduate from high school, a ``can-do'' 
attitude permeates the school. Santa Maria's 3,650 students learn in a 
facility designed for 1,800. Despite the portable classroom trailers 
used to accommodate the overflow, students and teachers go about their 
business of learning and teaching with great spirit and determination.
  Mr. Speaker, historically this school had its share of struggles, 
including poor achievement and gang activity. The transformation of 
SMHS began a decade ago. SMHS embarked on an action plan that included 
career exploration initiatives, the creation of a college center, and 
partnerships with businesses and community leaders.
  Additionally, Mr. Speaker, I have a personal connection to this 
school. One of my legislative aides, a proud SMHS graduate, serves in 
my Washington office and helps with the important issues of the 23rd 
Congressional District.
  In closing, I want to affirm my support for SMHS, and ask my 
colleagues to join me in congratulating the school on its receipt of 
the College Board 2004 Inspiration Award. This Monday will be a very 
proud day in the beautiful mosaic we call Santa Maria.

                          ____________________