On the recordOctober 20, 2021
Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a teacher from my district who recently received a prestigious Iowa award for her work to inspire the next generation. Last week, Sara Russell, who has been teaching social studies for nearly 20 years at Pleasant Valley High School in Bettendorf, was awarded the Department of Education's 2022 Teacher of the Year Award by Governor Kim Reynolds. The Iowa Teacher of the Year Award was established in 1958 to recognize educators who go above and beyond to motivate and inspire students to achieve at their highest levels. Sara was selected for this award for her leadership in helping students build life skills while also being a mentor for new teachers in the Pleasant Valley School District. Mr. Speaker, I thank Sara and all educators who work to inspire the next generation of American leaders and make Iowa the best place to learn, live, work, and raise a family. Recognizing Eric Vander Velden
