Recognizing Valencia Abbott

Floor Speech

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Ms. FOXX. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Valencia Abbott, of Rockingham Early College High School, who was recently named the 2025 National History Teacher of the Year.

This is a monumental accomplishment and one that speaks volumes to Ms. Abbott's passion for education and her dedication to the students she serves.

Not only is Ms. Abbott the 2025 National History Teacher of the Year, but she is also the 2025 North Carolina History Teacher of the Year.

Mr. Speaker, it is clear to me and to countless others that Ms. Abbott represents the best that Rockingham County Schools and North Carolina have to offer.

Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Ms. Abbott on her well-deserved recognition, and I thank her for her continued dedication to educating Rockingham County's future leaders. Recognizing Vance Dalton Upon His Retirement

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Ms. FOXX. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Vance Dalton, who recently retired from AgSouth Farm Credit after three decades of unwavering, passionate service.

I have been very fortunate to call Vance a friend for many years. He is a salt-of-the-earth person who is loyal, caring, and pleasant to everyone he meets. He has a deep faith that stands him in good stead.

During his time at Farm Credit, he built long-lasting friendships and relationships with the people Farm Credit is proud to serve, and he created long-lasting value every step of the way.

Mr. Speaker, everyone who is fortunate enough to have worked alongside Vance, to know him, or to even call him a friend agrees with this sentiment.

Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Vance on a well-earned retirement. May God continue to bless him and his family as he enters a new and exciting chapter in his life. Recognizing Scottie Cook

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Ms. FOXX. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Mr. Scottie Cook, a career and technical education teacher in the Alexander County School System.

In September, Mr. Cook was recognized as a winner of the Harbor Freight Tools for Schools Prize for teaching excellence. Mr. Cook was 1 of only 25 winners throughout the entire Nation and the only teacher in North Carolina to receive the award in 2025, a remarkable accomplishment, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. Cook's passion and service with a career in technical education have left an indelible mark on the lives of his students. There is no question about it.

Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Mr. Cook on this well-deserved recognition.

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