[Congressional Record Volume 165, Number 35 (Tuesday, February 26, 2019)]
[Senate]
[Pages S1487-S1488]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         TRIBUTE TO IAN JACKSON

 Mr. RUBIO. Madam President, today I honor Ian Jackson, the 
Volusia County Teacher of the Year from T. Dewitt Taylor Middle-High 
School in Pierson, FL.
  Ian is an Advancement Via Individual Determination teacher, working

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with students from 8th to 12th grade and considers it his job to change 
the trajectories of his students for the better. After receiving this 
award, Ian noted that it was not just him being recognized, but also 
his students for their success.
  Ian urges his students to strive for greatness in their middle school 
and high school coursework in preparation for the college workload. He 
focuses on ensuring his classroom feels like a second home to his 
students when they struggle and are in need of support.
  Many of Ian's students come from difficult circumstances, so he works 
to establish strong relationships and create a positive environment for 
them. He dedicates his time to listening to the needs of his students 
and conveying to them that he cares about their well-being. Eighty 
percent of his students are accepted into 4-year universities and many 
stay in contact with him through college and beyond.
  Ian has taught at T. Dewitt Taylor Middle-High School since 2005. He 
previously taught English as a second language classes in Georgia. He 
earned his bachelor's degree from Tocca Falls College.
  I extend my sincere thanks and gratitude to Ian for his dedication to 
helping his students succeed in life. I look forward to learning of his 
continued success in the coming years.

                          ____________________