[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 206 (Thursday, December 14, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1229-E1230]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  RECOGNIZING KERN HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT SUPERINTENDENT BRYON SCHAEFER

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. KEVIN McCARTHY

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, December 14, 2023

  Mr. McCARTHY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the retirement 
of a distinguished educator and leader, Dr. Bryon Schaefer, who has 
dedicated 38 years of his life to educating our children in Kern 
County, California. Dr. Schaefer's journey from a math teacher in East 
Bakersfield to Superintendent of the Kern High School District is a 
testament to his unwavering commitment to learning, leadership, and 
community. It also represents the growth and optimism that comes to 
mind when one thinks of the Central Valley.
  Dr. Schaefer embarked on his educational journey at the University of 
South Dakota, earning his Bachelor's degree in 1985. His passion for 
education led him to California, where he pursued and successfully 
obtained his Master's degree from California State University, 
Bakersfield in 1989. Even in the early stages of his career, Dr. 
Schaefer demonstrated a deep commitment to both his students' and his 
own professional development, simultaneously teaching high school math 
while earning his Master's degree. Not content to stop his academic 
advancement, Dr. Schaefer continued his pursuit of knowledge and earned 
his doctorate from the University of La Verne in 2002, specializing in 
organizational leadership.
  Dr. Schaefer's ascent within the Kern High School District reflects 
the rapport he has held with the faculty and parents with whom he 
continues to hold mutual care and affection.

[[Page E1230]]

Beginning as a Math Teacher in 1985, he swiftly rose through the ranks, 
serving as Dean of Students at North High School in 1991. His 
leadership journey continued with roles as Assistant Principal and as 
Principal in 1998. In 2010, Dr. Schaefer assumed the role of Assistant 
Superintendent, and in 2014, he ultimately accepted the role of 
Superintendent, guiding the district with prudence and dedication. 
Beyond his contributions within the Kern High School District Dr. 
Schaefer extended his impact to higher education, serving as an adjunct 
faculty member for Point Loma Nazarene University--Bakersfield Regional 
Center for over two decades.
  Though Dr. Schaefer has an impressive list of achievements in 
educational leadership throughout his 38 year career, his greatest 
legacy can be found in his diligent and ambitious mission for student 
education and personal growth. His commitment to providing quality 
education in Kern County has left an enduring impact on the community, 
shaping the future of countless students.
  I know that Dr. Schaefer is looking forward to this next chapter of 
his life and spending mom time with his wife Beth, two children Shannon 
and Haley, and granddaughter Delilah. On behalf of the 20th 
Congressional District of California, I would like to congratulate Dr. 
Bryon Schaefer on a well-deserved retirement, a successful career in 
education, and for his many contributions to our community.

                          ____________________