Tahoma High School State Civics Champions

Floor Speech

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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.

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