[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 9 (Wednesday, February 2, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E159]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




    TRIBUTE TO FEDRICK INGRAM, MIAMI-DADE COUNTY TEACHER OF THE YEAR

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                         HON. KENDRICK B. MEEK

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, February 2, 2005

  Mr. MEEK of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor Mr. Fedrick Ingram 
of Carol City High School, who was honored this past Tuesday as Miami-
Dade County Teacher of the Year.
  Mr. Ingram, known for his discipline and drive, has pushed his 
students to excel in music and academic studies. For the first time in 
10 years, Miami Carol City's Band received straight superiors in this 
year's District Band Competition, and was even invited to perform 
during the Sugar Bowl last month.
  While many schools are placing less importance on fine arts, Mr. 
Ingram has shown what value an amazing fine arts program can have. As 
Band Director and Fine Arts Department Chairperson, he has motivated 
his students both in the classroom and the band room--and his results 
have been amazing. Last year, more than two-dozen of his students 
amassed $300,000 in college scholarships. Under his leadership, his 
students have increased their self-esteem and have improved their 
grades, test scores and graduation rates.
  Ingram founded the Miami All-Stars Band Camp in 2002, giving many 
low-income families the opportunity to send their children. His last 
camp included nearly 300 students all of which were given the 
opportunity to work with college band directors and local musicians for 
an intensive one-week collegiate training course.
  Mr. Ingram shares his life's passion daily. Mr. Speaker, I recognize 
him for his accomplishments and commend him for his hard work and 
innovation.

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