[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 156 (2010), Part 7]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 9343]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




     RECOGNIZING ST. CLARE WALKER MIDDLE SCHOOL IN LOCUST HILL, VA

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. ROBERT J. WITTMAN

                              of virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, May 25, 2010

  Mr. WITTMAN. Madam Speaker, I am privileged to rise today to 
recognize St. Clare Walker Middle School in Locust Hill, VA for their 
recent national accreditation as a ``School to Watch''.
  In 1999 the National Forum introduced the ``Schools to Watch'' 
Program. This program is a national partnership that seeks to identify 
and recognize high-performing middle schools. A strict criteria and 
guidelines, set by the ``Schools to Watch'' Forum, help identify the 
high-performing middle schools. Schools that are distinguished as 
``high-performing'' demonstrate academic excellence by challenging 
students, are sensitive to the unique developmental needs of early 
adolescents, and provide students with high-quality resources and 
educators. St. Clare Walker Middle School in Locust Hill, VA was 
recognized for meeting and exceeding the criteria.
  St. Clare Walker Middle School Principal Dr. James Lane spearheaded 
and succeeded in creating a school that helps students excel 
academically, socially, and developmentally. Dr. Lane's commitment to 
excellence has resulted in national recognition as one of the best 
middle schools in Virginia. I want to commend the entire faculty, staff 
and students of St. Clare Walker Middle School for their hard work. As 
the husband of a school teacher I understand the vital work and 
learning that takes place every day in classrooms across the 
Commonwealth. The educators at St. Clare Walker Middle School have 
helped to create a learning environment that positions their students 
for lifelong academic success. I also want to recognize Superintendent 
Donald Fairheart, school board members, and members of the board of 
supervisors for their support and dedication to the success of St. 
Clare Walker Middle School.
  Recently I had the pleasure of visiting St. Clare Walker Middle 
School. I was able to spend the day with the faculty, teachers, and 
students. I was impressed by the many dedicated teachers and faculty 
with a passion for educating our Nation's youth. I also enjoyed meeting 
and talking with many St. Clare Walker Middle School students who 
exhibited great enthusiasm for learning.
  I want to take some time today, to congratulate St. Clare Walker 
Middle School in Locust Hill, VA and wish them continued future 
success. Through their hard work and perseverance they have earned the 
national honor of being designated a ``School to Watch''.

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