[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 36 (Tuesday, March 28, 2006)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E419]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             TRIBUTE TO MS. BEA'S COMMUNITY READING PROGRAM

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                     HON. CHARLES W. BOUSTANY, JR.

                              of louisiana

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, March 28, 2006

  Mr. BOUSTANY. Mr. Speaker, I want to recognize a community reading 
program in Crowley, Louisiana founded by Joey Webb.
  Ms. Bea's Community Reading Program organizes 20 community volunteers 
each week to visit Ross Elementary School and work for half an hour in 
each of the four first grade classrooms. These patient and caring 
volunteers work one on one with the students to help them learn to read 
and improve their reading skills. To ensure the effort isn't just one 
day a week at school, the program issues each student a weekly reader 
to practice at home. In addition, the volunteers serve as valuable role 
models and inspire the students to continue learning and staying in 
school.
  The faculty at Ross Elementary has commented that the impact of the 
program is improving the entire school. Although the program is focused 
on the first grade, students in the other grades have taken notice of 
the community members coming to the school. Students are working 
harder, classroom behavior has improved and they are more focused on 
schoolwork.
  Earlier this year, I participated in the program and visited with 
several classrooms and spoke with them about the importance of learning 
to read and attending school. These young students are the future of 
Louisiana. As our state rebuilds from the devastation caused by two 
hurricanes it is now more important than ever that we inspire our youth 
to work to improve and contribute to our great state.
  I want to congratulate Joey Webb and the citizens of Crowley on their 
dedication and spirit to help others in the community.

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