Congratulating James Simmons

Floor Speech

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Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate James Simmons, a dedicated construction teacher at North Scott High School in Eldridge, Iowa, who will receive the Harbor Freight Tools for Schools Prize for Teaching Excellence. This prestigious national recognition awards Mr. Simmons with a $50,000 grant for his school's skilled trades program.

Teachers, students, and the North Scott principal have been working together to surprise Mr. Simmons today with his award by orchestrating a surprise celebration at his school, held outdoors by the tiny homes his students tirelessly built.

The Harbor Freight Tools for Schools Prize spotlights the exceptional yet often overlooked contributions of high school skilled trades teachers. This year, the program saw a record number of applicants, with over 1,000 teachers from all 50 States competing in the rigorous selection process.

We are immensely proud of Mr. Simmons. I congratulate him on this well-deserved honor.

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