[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 48 (Tuesday, March 20, 2007)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E592]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      HONORING SHEILA D. SMALLING

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. RON LEWIS

                              of kentucky

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, March 20, 2007

  Mr. LEWIS of Kentucky. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate 
Ms. Sheila D. Smalling, an exemplary citizen from my Congressional 
District who was recently named Kentucky Middle School Music Teacher of 
the Year by the Kentucky Music Educators Association.
  Ms. Smalling has been teaching music in the Warren County School 
District since 1985, spending the last 19 years at Drakes Creek Middle 
School. Her skill in the classroom has helped make Drakes Creek rank 
fourth in the Commonwealth in Arts and Humanities scoring.
  Ms. Smalling's influence reaches well beyond the classroom. As band 
director, she leads almost a quarter of the entire student body, 
organizing public performances to showcase their talents including two 
formal hour-long concerts each school year.
  Many of Ms. Smalling's former students have benefited from her 
passion, building an appreciation for music that continues with them 
after they leave Drakes Creek Middle School. In fact, several of her 
students have gone on to become music teachers. Several others have 
pursued college degrees in instrumental performance. One former student 
is now a member of ``Pershing's Own'' ceremonial military band here in 
Washington, DC.
  It is my great privilege to honor Ms. Sheila D. Smalling today before 
the entire U.S. House of Representatives for her excellent work in 
public education. Her dedication and love of music continues to 
influence the lives of students and the communities they will someday 
serve. Ms. Smalling has set a fine example for the people of Kentucky's 
Second Congressional District. She is an outstanding citizen worthy of 
our collective honor and appreciation.