[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 70 (Wednesday, April 30, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E781]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       HONORING LEWIS CHAPPELEAR

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. BRAD SHERMAN

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, April 30, 2008

  Mr. SHERMAN. Madam Speaker, today I rise to commend and congratulate 
an outstanding California teacher, Lewis Chappelear, for being named a 
finalist for the National Teacher of the Year award.
  Mr. Chappelear is an accomplished scholar, receiving his Bachelor of 
Science degree in biomedical engineering from Boston University in 
1994, a Master of Science degree in mechanical engineering from 
Columbia University in 1995, and a California Clear Teaching Credential 
in math, physics, and electronics in 2001. He received a National Board 
Certification in 2005. Highly praised by both his students and the 
community, he has received several awards including: Los Angeles 
Unified School District, LAUSD, Teacher of the Year, Los Angeles County 
Teacher of the Year, and California Teacher of the Year, and is 
California's nominee for the National Teacher of the Year Award.
  Most importantly, Mr. Chappelear is a renowned teacher. He developed 
Monroe's School of Engineering and Design--an extremely successful 
hands-on learning environment which has received several prestigious 
awards. The school's mission is to prepare students for hightech jobs 
by placing students in internships through collaboration with local 
organizations and businesses. Students work on projects related to 
careers in engineering and jobs skills such as how to write a resume or 
business letter. He encourages learning by incorporating the most 
recent computer software and technology into his classroom lectures in 
a way that inspires all of his students.
  Realizing that robotics is one of the most effective ways to teach 
science and math, Mr. Chappelear has recruited and trained teachers 
from all over California to begin similar robotics programs. In 2007, 
his students took first place in a regional robotics championship held 
at California State University, Northridge.
  Mr. Chappelear's work extends beyond the classroom. After noticing 
that students in his classes were having problems with drugs and 
alcohol, he facilitated groups to help students during his breaks. He 
considers himself an important part of the community: His students are 
his family. His philosophy on teaching is to make emotional connections 
with each student and to make their learning relevant. He believes that 
everything in the classroom should be interdisciplinary. In his words, 
``I am not just an Engineering and Design teacher * * * I am also a 
mentor, a guide and a critical link in my students' lives.'' He feels 
that student achievement is based in rigor, relevance and 
relationships.
  Madam Speaker, I am proud to recognize Lewis Chappelear as a finalist 
for the National Teacher of the Year award. I am truly honored to pay 
tribute to this outstanding teacher.

                          ____________________