[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 148 (Thursday, September 6, 2018)]
[House]
[Page H7881]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           STUDENTS RETURNING TO SCHOOL IN THE VIRGIN ISLANDS

  (Ms. PLASKETT asked and was given permission to address the House for 
1 minute and to revise and extend her remarks.)
  Ms. PLASKETT. Mr. Speaker, 1 year ago today, Hurricane Irma struck my 
home, the Virgin Islands of the United States. Much was lost, but we 
were bent but not broken, and our good God has preserved our spirit.
  This week, many Virgin Islands students return to school. Some still 
await their facilities being prepared for them. It is a significant 
step forward. It also serves as a reminder that there is much work yet 
in restoring an environment wholly conducive to the needs of our 
students.
  After the hurricanes, both school districts lost estimates of $700 
million in facility supplies and food for educational purposes. It is 
incumbent on all of us--all of us--to put our shoulders in to push our 
children forward.
  I want to thank those who have been gifted with one of the most 
important roles in our community: the hardworking teachers, 
administrators, faculty, and staff who played an integral role in our 
students returning to school this week in the Virgin Islands. We are 
grateful for your efforts.

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