[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 66 (Thursday, May 10, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E773-E774]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




        SUPPORTING THE GOALS AND IDEALS OF NATIONAL TEACHER DAY

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. RUBEN HINOJOSA

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 10, 2012

  Mr. HINOJOSA. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H. Res. 645 to urge 
my colleagues and our nation to observe Teacher Appreciation Week and 
the monumental contributions of America's teachers.
  As a cosponsor of H. Res. 645, I commend our nation's teachers for 
their tireless work on behalf of millions of students and families; 
their knowledge and expertise; and their selfless dedication to their 
profession.
  Throughout the year, our nation's teachers spend countless hours 
preparing lesson plans, evaluating student progress, counseling 
students and families, and instilling the vital importance of civic 
responsibility and national service.
  In South Texas, we are fortunate to have exceptional educators who 
work day in and day out to educate and prepare children, youth, and 
adult learners to lead prosperous and healthy lives.
  I especially want to thank Dr. Daniel King, Superintendent of the 
Pharr-San Juan-Alamo (PSJA) Independent School District, for honoring 
44 of PSJA's teachers of the year this month.
  Today, it's truly an honor for me to recognize and congratulate two 
of PSJA's outstanding teachers of year: my daughter, Iliana Hinojosa, a 
pre-kindergarten teacher at Dr. William Long Elementary who was 
selected as the PSJA Elementary District Teacher of the Year; and Agnes 
Ocampo, a science teacher at PSJA Memorial High School who was selected 
as the PSJA Secondary District Teacher of the Year.
  Due to their hard work and extraordinary commitment to students and 
academic excellence, Iliana and Agnes have advanced to the regional 
competition. This is quite an accomplishment!
  Iliana Hinojosa and Agnes Ocampo are shining examples of what can be 
achieved in our nation's classrooms. By instilling a love of learning 
in our children and ensuring that they

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succeed, Iliana and Agnes are transforming lives and helping students 
to reach their full potential.
  As our nation observes Teacher Appreciation Week, I urge my 
colleagues and all Americans to support critical investments in 
education that help to provide all students with a high quality 
education and to make teaching one of the most valued professions in 
America.

                          ____________________