[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 71 (Thursday, May 1, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E797]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     RECOGNIZING AMERICA'S TEACHERS

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                            HON. DAVID SCOTT

                               of georgia

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, April 30, 2008

  Mr. SCOTT of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express support 
for the passage of House Resolution 1130, which recognizes the roles 
and contributions of America's teachers to building and enhancing our 
Nation's civic, cultural and economic well-being. I want to thank the 
gentleman from Missouri, Mr. Graves, for offering this important 
resolution.
  Our teachers play an instrumental role in guiding children throughout 
their adolescence and into adulthood. More than just instructors, 
teachers are mentors and friends who encourage students to reach their 
potential. They also serve as the eyes and ears for parents during the 
school day, playing a vital role in helping a child's personal growth 
and development.
  As our Nation continues to expand rapidly, we must also continue to 
encourage people to enter the teaching profession so we will continue 
to have great teachers to meet our growing needs. Since entering 
Congress in 2003, I have been proud to support initiatives to recruit 
high school and college students to enter teaching and work in 
communities with the greatest needs. This year, I was also pleased to 
join as a co-sponsor of a resolution establishing National Teacher Day 
during National Teacher Appreciation Week, offered by the gentleman 
from Florida, Mr. Klein. Going forward, I will continue to support 
increased funding for NCLB and IDEA so that teachers have the resources 
they need to be most successful. Our teachers deserve nothing less.
  Next week, as we celebrate National Teacher Appreciation Week, I 
encourage my constituents and all Americans to take a moment to reflect 
upon special moments they have shared with their teachers. I also 
encourage parents and students to take a moment, whether with a shiny 
apple or a simple thank you, to show teachers that they appreciate 
their service to our schools.
  In closing, Mr. Speaker, I want to thank Mr. Graves once again for 
offering this timely resolution and I want to thank each of my teachers 
for all they did to help me reach my potential.

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