[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 66 (Wednesday, May 5, 2010)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E758]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




         TRIBUTE IN HONOR OF NATIONAL TEACHER APPRECIATION WEEK

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                        HON. MICHAEL K. SIMPSON

                                of idaho

                    in the house of representatives

                         Wednesday, May 5, 2010

  Mr. SIMPSON. Madam Speaker, in recognition of National Teacher 
Appreciation Week, I rise today to pay tribute to teachers across the 
country.
  This year, National Teacher Appreciation Week has extra significance. 
With unemployment holding near double-digits, the economy in a 
prolonged recession, and education budgets slashed in many states, many 
teachers face the possibility of being laid-off. As Congress considers 
education reform legislation, we must keep in mind the needs of 
educators, who have the most important job of all--preparing our young 
people for the future.
  As a member of the House Appropriations Committee, I have spent a 
great deal of time working on education issues, meeting with teachers, 
and trying to better understand the many issues confronting our 
nation's schools. While there are many pressing needs at hand, I will 
take every opportunity to recognize the commitment of our teachers, 
many of whom are underpaid and often underappreciated for their crucial 
work. That is why I am proud to be a cosponsor of H. Res. 1312, which 
recognizes the roles and contributions of America's teachers to 
building and enhancing our Nation's civic, cultural, and economic well-
being.
  Teachers play a critical role in shaping our future. They touch the 
lives of children every day. They inspire, encourage, motivate, and 
educate the next generation. I applaud their efforts and thank them for 
their dedication

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