HOUSE RESOLUTION NO. 97-4660, by Representatives D. Schmidt, Thompson and Johnson

     WHEREAS, It is the policy of the Washington State Legislature to honor excellence in every field of endeavor; and

     WHEREAS, Fran O'Rourke, a teacher at Cedar Wood Elementary School in Bothell, Washington, has demonstrated exceptional skills in the classroom, and has therefore been awarded the Presidential Award for Excellence in Science and Mathematics Teaching; and

     WHEREAS, Fran O'Rourke's unique teaching style is replete with enriching opportunities for students, and includes hands-on learning activities, strong parental involvement, and interdisciplinary curricula design; and

     WHEREAS, Fran O'Rourke and her students designed a driver's license for the Mars Rover Pathfinder mission, a copy of which is now on display at the Smithsonian Institute; and

     WHEREAS, Fran O'Rourke has initiated or been involved with instructional technology projects such as simulated space shuttle launches, simulated journeys to the moon and Mars, a two-day wetlands curriculum, NASA's summer symposium in science curriculum, and a multitude of other creative learning opportunities for students; and

     WHEREAS, Fran O'Rourke has exhibited boundless energy, unusual vision, and a commitment to her students that is worthy of emulation by teachers across the state;

     NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives honor Fran O'Rourke; and

     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be immediately transmitted by the Chief Clerk of the House of Representatives to Fran O'Rourke and the Principal of Cedar Wood Elementary School.

   I hereby certify this to be a true and correct copy of

   Resolution 4660 adopted by the House of Representatives

                       April 21, 1997.

              ________________________________

               Timothy A. Martin, Chief Clerk