[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 141 (Tuesday, August 26, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E786]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 HONORING THE SERVICE OF TOM TORLAKSON

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. MARK DeSAULNIER

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, August 26, 2025

  Mr. DeSAULNIER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor the 
distinguished career of Tom Torlakson, a dedicated public servant and 
steadfast advocate for California's students, families and educators.
  Tom's career in service began in the classroom. As a high school 
science teacher and coach in the Mount Diablo Unified School District, 
he saw firsthand the transformative power of education. His early 
experience in education shaped a lifelong commitment to ensuring that 
every child could learn, grow, and succeed, regardless of their 
background or zip code.
  Recognizing the broader systemic challenges facing education, Mr. 
Torlakson entered public office to expand his impact. He served on the 
Antioch City Council and the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors, 
where he advocated for stronger schools, safer communities, and greater 
opportunities for all residents. His leadership in local government 
paved the way for his election to the California State Assembly and 
later the California State Senate, where he continued to be a leading 
voice on education and public health policy.
  During his tenure in the California Legislature, Mr. Torlakson 
authored significant legislation that fundamentally improved the lives 
of millions. Among his many accomplishments, he was instrumental in 
establishing California's system of after-school programs, the largest 
after-school program system in the nation, providing students with 
safe, enriching environments after school hours. He also spearheaded 
the Quality Education Investment Act (SB 1133), securing billions of 
dollars in critical funding to support the state's most challenged 
schools and reduce educational inequities.
  In 2011, Tom was elected as California's 27th State Superintendent of 
Public Instruction, a position he held with honor and distinction until 
2019. As superintendent, he championed initiatives to close the digital 
divide, address achievements gaps, reduce dropout rates, and promote 
innovative programs such as the State Seal of Biliteracy, recognizing 
students who achieved proficiency in multiple languages. His leadership 
was key in preserving vital resources for schools and safeguarding 
educational opportunities for California's six million students, 
despite the state's budget challenges.
  Beyond policy achievements, Tom's tenure was marked by his 
compassionate nature, which underscored his belief that the future of 
our communities, our economy, and our democracy depends on how we 
nurture and educate our young people. He worked collaboratively with 
educators, parents, and policymakers to foster a culture of inclusion, 
innovation, and excellence.
  Mr. Speaker, it is fitting that we recognize Tom Torlakson today not 
only for his extraordinary record of public service but also for the 
profound and positive difference he has made in countless lives. His 
steadfast commitment to education and public welfare stands as an 
enduring example to us all. Please join me in honoring Tom Torlakson 
for his lifetime of service, leadership, and dedication to the people 
of California.

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