On the recordFebruary 5, 2020
The prestigious Milken Educator Awards have been called the Oscars of teaching. I rise today to pay tribute to a resident of Missouri's Fourth District who was recently honored as one of the Milken Family Foundation's outstanding educators. Melissa Fike of Oakland Middle School of Columbia, Missouri, has taught for 14 years and was not told ahead of time about her award. She was shocked to hear her name announced during a recent school assembly packed by Oakland Middle School students and staff. As a winner, she receives an award, the recognition of her colleagues, and a check for $25,000. Teachers make an indelible mark on the lives of young people through their kind words, encouraging smiles, impartation of knowledge, or by helping plant a seed that bears fruit in future years. Melissa Fike has distinguished herself and made an impact that will be felt for years to come. Madam Speaker, I want to commend Melissa Fike on her great work making a difference in the lives of so many young people and congratulate her on this prestigious award. Recognizing Morris Burger, Former President and CEO of Burgers' Smokehouse
