Rubén Hinojosa: “today it is my honor to join in saluting teachers in communities all across America as students, parents, school…”

“today it is my honor to join in saluting teachers in communities all across America as students, parents, school administrators and the public celebrate the teaching profession. Few other professionals touch so many people in such a lasting way as teachers do. Mr. Speaker, I think each and every one of us can recall that one special teacher who inspired us, who guided us and who helped make us the person we are today, and I know I can. Teachers open children's minds to the magic of ideas, knowledge and dreams. They keep American democracy alive by laying the foundation for good citizenship, and they fill many roles as listeners, explorers, role models, motivators and mentors. Long after our school days are only memories, teachers continue to influence us. I know that at elementary school Miss Halcomb did exactly that. In middle school Audrey Geoff did that for me. In high school math, E.R. Broughton; in high school government, Lucille Parrish; in high school English, Eddie McNail. From my youth I recall a proverb that has stayed with me throughout the years: Better than a thousand days of diligent study is one day with a great teacher. Today and all throughout the year celebrate teaching. Take the time to recognize the lasting contributions that educators make to our community and thank those special teachers who have truly made a difference in each of our lives.”