[Congressional Record Volume 166, Number 24 (Wednesday, February 5, 2020)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E135]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  LIFE AND LEGACY OF HON. JOHN BUCKNER

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                            HON. JOE NEGUSE

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, February 5, 2020

  Mr. NEGUSE. Madam Speaker, the Cherry Creek Schools Board of 
Education recently named the Honorable John Buckner as one of the 
newest inductees to the Legacy Stadium Educational Leadership Wall of 
Fame. This honor is so very well-earned, and I join in Cherry Creek 
Schools' lauding of Mr. Buckner's life and legacy.
   State Representative Buckner served as a principal in Colorado 
schools for decades and was a lifelong advocate for equal access to 
meaningful education for every student across our state, including by 
leading his district's work in the areas of equity and inclusive 
excellence and as Chair of the House Education Committee. He carried 
these values not only as a school administrator, but also throughout 
his time as a member of the Colorado State House. As one example of his 
countless substantial contributions, in the 2014 state legislative 
session he sponsored the annual school finance bill and successfully 
increased funding for English language learners and created an 
additional 5,000 pre-K and full-day kindergarten slots for at-risk 
children.
   Rep. Buckner was a mentor to countless Coloradans, myself included. 
He served his community with dedicated grace and thoughtful 
policymaking, and set an example for what steadfast, meaningful 
leadership looks like for so many future leaders. That legacy continues 
each day through Rep. Buckner's wife Janet who, since his passing in 
2015, has held his State House seat and taken up the mantle on 
countless issues that John championed.
   I am so pleased that Rep. Buckner is receiving this well-earned 
honor, and I join in this recognition alongside so many people and 
organizations in Colorado who continue to benefit from the leadership 
he demonstrated each and every day.

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