[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 159 (2013), Part 9]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 13590]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                        HONORING RUBEN ARGUELLES

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. FILEMON VELA

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 12, 2013

  Mr. VELA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Ruben Arguelles to 
express my deep appreciation for all that he has done for south Texas 
students.
  For the last 23 years, Mr. Arguelles has dedicated himself to 
educating young people. He spent six years in the classroom as a 
teacher and 17 years as an administrator leading students, teachers, 
and staff. His commitment to the Rio Grande Valley is reflected in his 
service across several independent school districts (ISD)--Weslaco ISD, 
Progresso ISD, Mercedes ISD, and Santa Rosa ISD.
  In every position he has held, Mr. Arguelles demonstrated a tireless 
focus on ensuring that children have access to the best possible 
education to prepare them for the future. His dedication also extended 
to providing a supportive school environment, improving the community, 
and bettering the lives of South Texas families.
  In his last two years at Santa Rosa ISD, Mr. Arguelles faced a great 
personal challenge. Although he was diagnosed with cancer, Mr. 
Arguelles continued to serve as principal even as he underwent grueling 
treatment. Even in the most difficult of times, Mr. Arguelles remained 
focused on his mission as an educator.
  On behalf of all those whose lives he touched, I rise to recognize 
the exemplary service of Ruben Arguelles. His dedication, even when 
faced with illness, is an inspiration to us all.

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