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[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E375]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
TAHOMA HIGH SCHOOL STATE CIVICS CHAMPIONS
______
HON. KIM SCHRIER
of washington
in the house of representatives
Tuesday, April 21, 2020
Ms. SCHRIER. Madam Speaker, congratulations to the hardworking
students of Tahoma High School from Maple Valley, Washington, for being
selected for the 11th consecutive time to represent Washington state in
the annual ``We the People: The Citizens and the Constitution''
competition organized by the Center for Civic Education.
These dedicated students have spent the past year studying the
history and principles of the Constitution and the Bill of Rights. They
have gained a better understanding of our nation's founding values,
representative democracy, and how the lawmaking process functions.
The annual in-person ``We the People'' final competition typically
takes place in Washington, D.C., in late April. Understandably, due to
the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the event was cancelled this year.
Regardless, I am tremendously proud of these students' diligent work
over the past year. Civic education is vital to a well-rounded high
school education. In this time of crisis, it is more important than
ever that young people are well-informed so they can engage
constructively with public policy. I hope that these talented students
feel empowered to vote, participate in politics, and be leading voices
for positive change in our state and country. I am excited to hear
about how they carry the principles and values of civic education into
their future endeavors and become the next generation of leaders.
I am especially grateful to Gretchen Wulfing for her dedication to
civic education. In addition to teaching government at Tahoma High
School, Gretchen has coached Civic Education for 12 years. Most
recently, in 2016, she was honored as one of Washington's distinguished
Civic Educators.
Teachers like Gretchen are especially vital in this uncertain time,
and the 8th District is extremely appreciative for her dedication to
educating students in Maple Valley.
Finally, I would like to individually recognize each student, whose
tremendous commitment and enthusiasm to learning our Constitution, I
deeply admire. Congratulations to: Riley Barlett, Dane Bowman-Weston,
Katerina Bruhl, Matthew Bruneel, Neena Chana, Claire Cunningham, Grace
Denison, Shelby Ellis, Djanaya Esiong, Issabella Huser.
Sarah Kropelnicki, Preston Lievano, Jaden Mason, Aidan Mercado, Emma
Nickel, Gage Nickel, Calvin O'Connell, Luke Oriolt, Daniela Perezchica-
Trancoso, Claire Riordan, Elizabeth St. John, Jasmine Tran, Janey Yee.
Congratulations again to Gretchen and these bright students from
Tahoma High School for their dedication to civic education. We in
Washington's 8th District couldn't be more proud of them, and we wish
them the best of luck.
____________________
