[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 79 (Thursday, May 21, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1259]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




       IN APPRECIATION OF SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS BARBARA OLDS

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. JACKIE SPEIER-

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 21, 2009

  Ms. SPEIER. Madam Speaker, Barbara Olds has served the children of 
South San Francisco as a teacher, principal, Superintendent and 
everything in between for more than forty years, since taking her first 
job as a teacher at South San Francisco High School in 1966.
  Superintendent Olds' legacy of service is a remarkable achievement, 
one truly fitting of recognition. She is set to retire at the end of 
this academic year to give herself time to pursue her many and varied 
interests.
  Barbara Olds was the type of teacher that kids tell their parents 
about and parents pray that their children get assigned to her 
classroom. To Barbara, instruction never ended at the bell and learning 
was never confined to textbooks. During her 14-years as a teacher, Ms. 
Olds tirelessly gave of her free time for the benefit of her students 
and fellow educators, serving as Director of Student Government, 
Director of Student Activities, and serving the South San Francisco 
Classroom Teachers Association in many capacities--including as a 
member of the Negotiating Council and as both President and Vice 
President.
  Since moving into school administration in 1979, Barbara served as an 
Assistant Principal for Discipline and Attendance, then Counseling and 
Guidance, before being named Principal of South San Francisco High 
School in 1991.
  In 2003, her excellent work, unparalleled standing in the community 
and clear passion for education led the SSF Unified School District 
Board of Trustees to elevate Barbara Olds to the position of 
Superintendent of Schools. Since that time the district has thrived, 
despite difficult financial times.
  Barbara Olds received her Bachelor of Arts and Secondary Teaching 
Credential from San Francisco State University and a Master's of Public 
Administration from the College of Notre Dame in Belmont. She further 
advanced her education with an IDEA Fellowship in 1989.
  Madam Speaker, I have been privileged to know Superintendent Olds 
these many years and can attest to the fact that she shaped thousands 
of young minds and encouraged countless students to engage in their 
world and pursue their dreams. Her love and passion for education was 
passed onto her son, Robert, who continues the family tradition as a 
fourth grade teacher.
  Our community and our nation are better places because of the work of 
Barbara Olds. On behalf of the United States House of Representatives 
and the grateful citizens of the City of South San Francisco, I thank 
her and wish Barbara much joy and success in the years to come.

                          ____________________