[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 41 (Thursday, March 7, 2024)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E223]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





RECOGNIZING MRS. CHRISTAL BENNETT, THE SANTA ROSA COUNTY TEACHER OF THE 
                                  YEAR

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                            HON. MATT GAETZ

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, March 7, 2024

  Mr. GAETZ. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize the Santa Rosa 
County Teacher of the Year, Mrs. Christal Bennett, for her exceptional 
efforts in fostering the musical talents of her many students. A 
longtime Florida native, Mrs. Bennett's extensive history in music 
education began in the very District in which she now teaches. From 
Avalon Middle School to the University of West Florida, Mrs. Bennett's 
exceptional gift of music has exemplified a lifelong dedication to 
spreading joy throughout her community.
  As the Director of Bands at Central School and the recent founder of 
its very first marching band, Mrs. Bennett's leadership continues to 
find new and influential ways to impact the lives of countless young 
musicians. In its first year, the Central School Jaguar Marching Band 
has already managed to obtain a competition rating of ``excellent'' 
under her direction.
  Mrs. Bennett's stated mission of filling her students with pride 
exemplifies the kind of leader she is. I express great pride in knowing 
that such a remarkable and kindhearted person has been named the Santa 
Rosa County Teacher of the Year. I congratulate her on this well-
deserved recognition and look forward to seeing the many musical 
successes that she and her students will undoubtedly achieve in the 
future.

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