[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 31 (Friday, February 16, 2018)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E202]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 RECOGNIZING HEATHER PHILLIPS, TEACHER OF THE YEAR FOR OKALOOSA COUNTY 
                            SCHOOL DISTRICT

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. MATT GAETZ

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, February 16, 2018

  Mr. GAETZ. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize Heather Phillips, 
the Teacher of the Year for Okaloosa County School District. For many 
years, Ms. Phillips has served the Okaloosa County School District with 
exceptional enthusiasm and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
  Ms. Phillips is a fourth-grade teacher at Bluewater Elementary School 
in Niceville, FL. Even though she has taught for 15 years, she feels 
like she is just getting started.
  Ms. Phillips finds the greatest inspiration from her faith in God and 
the support of her family. She loves seeing the world through the eyes 
of children and allowing their energy to influence her focus on what 
truly matters.
  Her teaching experiences in Japan and Hong Kong help her appreciate 
diversity. She is also an active member of her church in Niceville and 
enjoys being part of the community where she teaches.
  Ms. Phillips believes being an educator is never predictable, and she 
thrives on the everchanging nature of her profession.
  Ms. Phillips' many skills and wonderful character truly make her an 
invaluable and greatly appreciated resource. For all these reasons and 
more, she has been selected as the 2018 Okaloosa County School District 
Teacher of the Year.
  She is honored to represent Bluewater Elementary and humbled to be 
considered among such an immensely talented group of educators.
  Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, I am privileged 
to recognize Ms. Heather Phillips for her accomplishments and her 
continued commitment to the Okaloosa County School District. I thank 
her for her service and wish her all the best for continued success.

                          ____________________