Congressman Paul Tonko inspires teachers

09.07.10 

Today was the first day back for faculty and staff at Watervliet City School District. The year got off to an inspirational start with a visit from United States Congressman Paul Tonko. Tonko is serving his first term in Congress representing the 21st District of New York, which includes the city of Watervliet.

Tonko has over two decades of administrative, legislative and policy experience having served in the New York State Assembly from 1983 to 2007. For much of his time in Albany, he served on the Education committee and he spoke to the group about how education is close to his heart, and a priority for his work in Washington.

"I serve on the  Education and Labor Committee because I specifically requested that assignment," Tonko said. "As a member of this committee, I am committed to advancing the best education policy for our nation’s schoolchildren. That includes reauthorizing the Elementary and Secondary Education Act in ways that will make meaningful, substantive changes for districts like Watervliet."

Tonko complimented the district on its Mission Statement "Every Student, Every Day," which shows "evidence of a 24/7 commitment to supporting students in their educational endeavors." His speech was also commended all of the renovations the district has been doing, citing the huge changes he saw today as compared to his last visit to Watervliet over Memorial Day Weekend.

"You have all been extremely busy around here this summer, creating facilities that reflect your vision for education. Lofty architecture helps support lofty goals in places of learning and it's obvious you all want your students to reach for the stars," he said.

 Tonko concluded by presenting a formal proclamation honoring Watervliet Teachers' Association Co-President Peter Strand for all of his work for in the district on behalf of students and staff alike.

"I am shocked and honored," said Strand. "I don't do this job for a pat on the back, I do it because I want to make our district the best it can be. I have to say that I could not do it without the support of my colleagues. We have a great team here and I'm proud to be a part of it."

 "I'm so pleased that Congressman Tonko was able to take time out of his hectic schedule to be here with us today to help us kick the school year off to such a rousing start," said Superintendent Paul Padalino.