WHEREAS, On January 14, 2004, Mr. Dennis Griner was named one of four finalists for the National Teacher of the Year Award; and
     WHEREAS, Mr. Griner performs many functions at his local Garfield-Palouse High School, including 11th and 12th grade social studies teacher, technology guru, and driver's ed teacher; and
     WHEREAS, Mr. Griner is currently serving as Washington State Teacher of the Year; and
     WHEREAS, Teachers are a very important part of our children's lives, helping them become active, responsible citizens of our communities through not only traditional teaching activities but also by being role models for several aspects of a child's life; and
     WHEREAS, Mr. Griner has shown a passionate commitment to our children's education and upbringing through putting in long hours in a small community and working tirelessly to improve his school through such projects as updating the multimedia department from one, antiquated video camera to state-of-the-art multimedia computers and editing equipment;
     NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Washington honor Mr. Griner for his commitment to the school children of his community and his desire to uphold and improve the quality of their education in many ways; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the Palouse School District be commended for providing an environment in which Dennis can receive such an honor from the National Teacher of the Year program; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That a copy of this resolution be immediately transmitted by the Secretary of the Senate to Mr. Griner and to Garfield-Palouse High School.