[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 147 (2001), Part 5]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 7444]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]



  A SPECIAL TRIBUTE TO MRS. MARY LOU KUHLMAN ON NATIONAL TEACHER'S DAY

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                          HON. PAUL E. GILLMOR

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                          Tuesday, May 8, 2001

  Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize National 
Teacher's Day and to pay tribute to a very special teacher who has 
touched many lives. Seldom do we acknowledge the importance of the job 
or the depth of a teacher's commitment to our children. While many 
people spend their lives building careers, teachers spend their careers 
building lives. For this they deserve our support, praise and 
gratitude.
  One teacher in particular deserves special recognition on National 
Teacher's Day, Mrs. Mary Lou Kuhlman. After 35 years of touching the 
lives of countless children she will be retiring. This is a true loss 
for my district and the state of Ohio. The children she has taught will 
become our future leaders, scientists, and teachers.
  Mrs. Kuhlman's long and distinguished career began in the same 
district where she continues to teach today. A graduate of the Glandorf 
High School in 1960, she currently teaches at Glandorf Elementary 
School. She holds a degree from Mary Manse College in Toledo and has 
completed graduate work at Bowling Green State University. The Martha 
Holden Jennings Foundation honored Mrs. Kuhlman by naming her a Scholar 
in 1982. The Foundation seeks to give students a greater opportunity to 
succeed and to empower teachers. Not only is Mrs. Kuhlman a remarkable 
teacher, but also greatly involved in countless religious and community 
service organizations.
  Year after year professionals dedicate their lives to the future of 
America. There is no more important or challenging job than that of our 
nation's teachers. The job of a teacher is to open a child's mind to 
the magic of ideas, knowledge, and dreams. Also, teachers are true 
guardians of the American democracy by instilling a sense of 
citizenship in the children they teach. Teachers not only educate but 
also act as listeners, facilitators, role models, and mentors, 
encouraging our children to reach further than they would have thought 
possible. Teachers continue to influence us long after our school days 
are only memories.
  Mr. Speaker, I believe that Mrs. Kulman's own words ring true on this 
very special day, ``Teaching has always been rewarding, satisfying, and 
enjoyable. Children are our most important asset. I feel so fulfilled 
when I can make a difference in a child's life and improve their 
situation.''

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