[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 33 (Thursday, March 1, 2012)]
[Senate]
[Page S1192]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     TRIBUTE TO DR. HEATH MORRISON

 Mr. HELLER. Mr. President, today I wish to congratulate Dr. 
Heath Morrison, who has been recognized as the 2012 American 
Association of School Administrators--AASA--National Superintendent of 
the Year. My home State of Nevada is proud and privileged to 
acknowledge such an extraordinary educator and leader.
  Since 2009, Dr. Morrison has served as superintendent for the Washoe 
County School District where he has proven to be an innovator in 
education. During his tenure, the Washoe County School District has 
achieved higher test scores and has seen their graduation rate rise to 
70 percent. Outside the classroom, Dr. Morrison continues to encourage 
and develop student performance by creating personal connections with 
the local community.
  Engaging with Washoe County residents has allowed Dr. Morrison to 
foster relationships with parents, volunteers, and local businesses in 
order to create and enhance scholastic opportunities for students. I 
commend Dr. Morrison for his strong leadership and positive influence 
on Nevada's youth.
  I admire and recognize the desire of our educators to uphold high 
education standards for our nation. Their guidance and encouragement 
provide students with the ability to become lifelong learners with a 
thirst for knowledge. Now more than ever, it is of paramount importance 
to prepare our children and grandchildren to compete in the 21st 
century.
  Nevada is fortunate to have such great educational leadership serving 
the students across our great State. I ask my colleagues to join me in 
congratulating Dr. Morrison and celebrating the achievements of our 
Nation's teachers, administrators, and staff who help to guide our 
students to educational excellence.

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