[Congressional Record Volume 163, Number 108 (Friday, June 23, 2017)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E890]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




     IN RECOGNITION OF THE DEDICATION AND SERVICE OF ERNIE ANASTOS

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. SUSAN A. DAVIS

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, June 23, 2017

  Mrs. DAVIS of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor a widely 
respected public servant who is set to retire on June 30th. Through his 
inspirational leadership he has touched the lives of thousands of 
students in San Diego County.
  It is fitting that at this time, as we celebrate the graduation of 
thousands of students across the nation, that I should rise to speak of 
Superintendent Ernest (Ernie) Anastos.
  Ernie is a graduate of Brandeis University, and holds a master's 
degree in Special Education from Bridgewater State College. He has been 
a dedicated educator for over 45 years.
  Ernie's life of public service began in 1972, as an elementary school 
teacher. His years of experience lent to a successful transition into 
school administration.
  He served Sweetwater Union High School District for 20 years, working 
at Chula Vista High School, Hill Top High School, and Mar Vista High 
School. Ernie was named principal to National City Middle School in 
1992, and to Rancho del Rey Middle School in 1997. Under his direction, 
both schools achieved the title of California Distinguished Schools.
  His time at Sweetwater Union High School District also included a 
term as the Area Superintendent in charge of Instructional Support 
Services and Student Support Services from 2002 to 2005.
  Ernie was named the Superintendent of Lemon Grove School District in 
2005. On April 28th, 2017, the Association of California School 
Administrators named Ernie as Superintendent of the Year in the San 
Diego and Imperial Counties.
  Under his leadership, Lemon Grove School District has created a 
number of highly successful, specialized schools including the Dual 
Immersion Academy at Mount Vernon Elementary, the San Miguel Arts 
Academy, and the Lemon Grove Academy of Sciences and Humanities. Ernie 
has been a stalwart in the push for quality public education.
  The Lemon Grove Academy campus is an example of the success that 
arose as a result of Ernie's inventiveness. Ernie sought to create 
schools that could serve as community centers. Through a partnership 
with UC San Diego, and the Lemon Grove Library, a joint-use facility 
was created which featured medical and dental clinics to serve students 
and their families.
  As I reflect on Ernie's career, I am inspired by his dedication to 
promoting student achievement. I am truly encouraged by his commitment 
to bettering the lives of those around him.
  Ernie's dedication to students, commitment to excellence, and 
ingenuity truly made him a remarkable leader. Under his guidance, Lemon 
Grove School District has emerged as a mecca for innovative education. 
I wish him congratulations on his upcoming retirement.

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