[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 27 (Tuesday, February 10, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E235]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    A TRIBUTE TO CAROLYN M. CUSTARD

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. GERALD E. CONNOLLY

                              of virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, February 10, 2009

  Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize 
Carolyn M. Custard and her achievements as the Principal of Cecil D. 
Hylton Senior High School in Woodbridge, Virginia.
  Principal Custard treats her students and faculty as family. The 
school motto, ``We are Family Working Together for Total Success'' 
resonates through every interaction at Hylton Senior High School. There 
is mutual trust and respect amongst the students, parents, faculty and 
administration, and all strive to meet Principal Custard's signature 
high expectations. She leads with positivity; motivating those around 
her to excel with efforts that are earnest and determined.
  Principal Custard's approach to education is remarkable and her 
success undeniable. The percentage of special education students who 
passed the Standards of Learning exams rose to 80% from 59% in just one 
year. In 2008, Ms. Custard was named the 2008 Outstanding High School 
Principal of Virginia, and Hylton Senior High School was recently 
placed in the top 5% of Newsweek's Top 1000 High Schools in the Nation.
  Principal Custard preaches collaborative leadership and established 
the Principal's Advisory Council. Composed of parents, students and 
staff, the Council encourages engagement in the school's community. 
Principal Custard education system can only benefit as parents and 
students take ownership in the performance and future of their local 
schools.
  In recognition of her innovation and sincere dedication to education, 
the National Association of Secondary School Principals named Principal 
Custard as one of their six finalists for the 2009 Principal of the 
Year Award.
  Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join my endorsement of 
Principal Custard's leadership in our nation's education system.

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