[Congressional Record Volume 166, Number 176 (Tuesday, October 13, 2020)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E958]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      HONORING DR. RICHARD RIVERA

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. FILEMON VELA

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, October 13, 2020

  Mr. VELA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Dr. Richard 
Rivera on his well-deserved retirement from the Weslaco Independent 
School District. Dr. Rivera instilled his own philosophy of education 
throughout the local community where now many generations share and 
foster his ideals. He not only shaped the community as a school board 
member and superintendent, but also as a teacher, role model, and 
mentor.
  Dr. Rivera's journey in education began in 1967 as a schoolteacher 
and coach. With every student he taught, parent he advised, and co-
worker he befriended, his passion to expand and build upon the 
established education system grew, leading him to rise to the position 
of Principal at both Mary Hoge Junior High School in 1974 and Weslaco 
High School in 1979.
  Dr. Rivera firmly believes that ``education is the great equalizer,'' 
and made it his life's mission to open doors for the students of our 
region. To achieve his vision for the community, Dr. Rivera cultivated 
a nurturing and collaborative environment during his 14 years of 
service as the Weslaco ISD Superintendent. Dr. Rivera recognized that 
in order to make a positive impact on students, the educational 
organization and the individuals who make up the school setting are 
critical in enriching and growing students' knowledge and experience. 
As such, our region's education system underwent a phase of great 
transformation. Student academic programs were expanded, school 
facilities were upgraded, and staff engagement was prioritized.
  Dr. Rivera believed in investing in people and prioritized mentoring 
his employees. There are countless testimonies from Weslaco ISD Staff 
who credit their careers to Dr. Rivera's dedication and deep commitment 
to employee support programs.
  Madam Speaker, it is my pleasure to recognize Dr. Richard Rivera for 
his 53 years of wholehearted devotion to the students and teachers of 
Weslaco. Dr. Rivera has undoubtedly had an indelible impact on 
educators throughout our region and has made a lasting impression on 
our students. I commend him on a well-earned retirement and wish him 
the best in every future endeavor.

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