[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 156 (Wednesday, December 7, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2476]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  IN RECOGNITION OF MARSHA PETTY--ARKANSAS'S 2005-2006 TEACHER OF THE 
                                  YEAR

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. MIKE ROSS

                              of arkansas

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, December 7, 2005

  Mr. ROSS. Mr. Speaker, it is with tremendous pride that I rise today 
to recognize Arkansas's 2005-2006 Teacher of the Year, Marsha Petty of 
Texarkana, Arkansas.
  A cum laude graduate from Ouachita Baptist University in Arkadelphia, 
Marsha has been teaching for 29 years and is an 11th grade chemistry 
teacher at Arkansas High School in Texarkana. There are few jobs more 
important, more rewarding, and more difficult than that of a teacher.
  I have always held a public school education in the highest regard. 
As parents, educators, and public officials, we have an obligation, a 
moral duty, to ensure that students, from pre-school to high school and 
beyond receive the highest quality education possible. By properly 
educating our students and providing them with the tools they need in 
order to become successful adults, they will thrive in today's fast-
paced and technological world.
  The most important component to our children's education is our 
teachers. Today more than ever, our educators face new obstacles and 
challenges. As the son of public school educators, I have a deep 
respect and gratitude for all educators and their personal commitment 
to our children.
  America is deeply indebted to top-notch educators, such as Marsha 
Petty, for their continued excellence in the classroom and commitment 
to our students. Today's teachers shape the very foundation of 
America's future. It is an honor to extend my heartfelt congratulations 
to Marsha as the 2005-2006 Arkansas Teacher of the Year.

                          ____________________