[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 146 (Thursday, November 15, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1763]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 IN SUPPORT OF AMERICAN EDUCATION WEEK

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                         HON. LAURA RICHARDSON

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, November 15, 2012

  Ms. RICHARDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize this week, 
November 11 through November 17, 2012, as American Education Week. I 
would like to take this opportunity to thank the millions of Americans 
who work every day to give our youth a world class public education.
  American Education Week was first observed in 1921 by the National 
Education Association and the American Legion. Representatives of these 
organizations were concerned that a quarter of World War I draftees 
were illiterate, and they began a movement to raise awareness of the 
needs of public schools. Now in its 91st year, American Education Week 
is an annual reminder of the importance of community involvement in 
education.
  As a former preschool teacher, I know firsthand of the challenges 
that face educators today. As classes grow and budgets shrink, teachers 
are often asked to do more with less. Nevertheless, millions of devoted 
Americans continue to serve our Nation's youth as teachers, 
administrators, and school personnel. I am continually impressed by 
their hard work and the tremendous impact they have on shaping future 
generations.
  Ultimately, it is all of our responsibility to give our children a 
bright and well-rounded education. We all play a role in educating our 
Nation's children, from the parents who volunteer at school to 
community members who mentor and lead by example. During this month, 
let us also thank these dedicated individuals and encourage others to 
become similar community leaders as well.
  Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in giving a heartfelt 
thank you to the hardworking teachers, school employees, mentors and 
parents of the 37th Congressional District as well as those across the 
nation. I encourage students, parents, and school officials to 
participate in the local events of American Education Week.

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