[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 176 (Wednesday, November 19, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2261]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  A TRIBUTE TO MRS. MARGARET WILLIAMS

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                           HON. WM. LACY CLAY

                              of missouri

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, November 19, 2008

  Mr. CLAY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Mrs. Margaret 
Williams, The Missouri Teacher of the Year 2008-2009 Recipient. The 
Missouri Teacher of the Year is a prestigious honors program that 
focuses public attention on excellence in teaching. Williams, a 37 year 
educator has earned the respect and admiration of students, parents, 
and colleagues alike. She inspires students of all backgrounds and 
abilities to learn. For the aforementioned reasons, I enthusiastically 
honor Mrs. Williams today before Congress.
  Mrs. Williams is a graduate of Beaumont High School in St. Louis, 
Missouri. She was inspired by her psychology teacher Mr. Brown to 
pursue a career in education. Mrs. Williams went on to graduate from 
the University of Missouri--St. Louis.
  Mrs. Williams is the social studies department chair for University 
City High School in University City, Missouri where she has been 
teaching for the last 18 years. Williams who also teaches history, 
government, and an African-American experience course was one of six 
finalists to compete in this year's competition.
  The Missouri Teacher of the Year program is conducted annually by the 
Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, in conjunction with 
the National Teacher of the Year program. Major funding for Missouri's 
program is provided by The Boeing Company, St. Louis, Missouri.
  Before joining University City, Williams began her illustrious career 
in education as principal and administrator from 1986 to 1990 at West 
Side Christian Academy in St. Louis. After which she taught at the 
Visual and Performing Arts High School and Beaumont from 1971 to 1986.
  Williams is the first in the University City School District to be 
named Missouri Teacher of the year and was honored with a special drum 
line presentation, and video made by the district as part of her 
nomination package.
  Madam Speaker, Mrs. Williams has my absolute highest recommendation 
to be honored today. Her contributions to education and unyielding 
commitment to the youth of Missouri is unmatched. As a pioneer in the 
University City Schools and a role model to all educators that is 
worthy of recognition. I urge my colleagues to join me in honoring Mrs. 
Margaret Williams for being a top Missouri educator and being named the 
Missouri Teacher of the Year 2008-2009.

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