[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 74 (Monday, June 12, 2006)]
[Senate]
[Page S5715]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  HONORING MARY HAND AND PHILIP HOLLEY

 Mr. SESSIONS. Mr. President, I would like to make some remarks 
today about two remarkable educators, Mary Hand and Philip Holley, 
recipients of the 2005 Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics 
and Science Teaching. This is the Nation's highest honor for teaching 
in mathematics and science. Only 100 7th to 12th grade teachers across 
the Nation are chosen for this remarkable award, which was established 
by Congress in 1983.
  Ms. Mary Hand, mathematics teacher at Liberty Middle School in 
Madison, AL, aims to make students comfortable in her classroom and 
encourages them to work in groups. Ms. Hand establishes a classroom 
environment that is optimal for student learning, and she aims to equip 
her students with teamwork skills that are essential in the workplace.
  Mr. Philip Holley, science teacher at Mountain Brook Junior High 
School in Birmingham, AL, strives to let students experience science 
and apply what they learn. He uses real-world examples to bring science 
to life in his classroom, which undoubtedly motivates his students and 
enhances their understanding of the importance of science.
  As a former educator and the father of three children, I realize the 
important role teachers play in our society. I am proud to know that 
teachers such as Ms. Hand and Mr. Holley are striving to develop 
students' math and science abilities. These skills will surely take 
students far in the workplace where math and science are increasingly 
in demand.
  I commend Ms. Hand and Mr. Holley for their leadership and 
professional excellence in education. Their work has impacted the lives 
of many students, and their influence will surely spread for years to 
come.

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