WHEREAS, It is the paramount duty of the state to provide all Washington children a public education, and its citizens recognize the vital role educators play in a quality system of learning; and
     WHEREAS, It is important to honor the dedication and hard work of educators, and the teacher awarded individual recognition as Washington State Teacher of the Year in 2006 is distinguished as an exceptional educator with outstanding skills and innovation; and
     WHEREAS, Ms. Susan Barnard is a highly respected language arts and reading teacher with more than ten years of experience at CHOICE Alternative High School in Shelton, Washington; and
     WHEREAS, Ms. Barnard acts as a language arts curriculum leader and literacy team leader in addition to her classroom responsibilities, as well as an advocate for her community through volunteer endeavors; and
     WHEREAS, Ms. Barnard uses innovative reading programs that encourage her students to learn and challenge themselves; and
     WHEREAS, Ms. Barnard was named as a Regional Teacher of the Year to acknowledge her significant involvement in advancing the education and future of every one of her students; and
     WHEREAS, Nothing is more central to the future of our state than our children's education, and Ms. Barnard embodies the selfless commitment that distinguishes our finest educators;
     NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Senate express its gratitude to Ms. Susan Barnard for her outstanding contributions to public education and offer its congratulations upon her being chosen for the honor of Washington State Teacher of the Year; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be immediately transmitted by the Secretary of the Senate to Ms. Susan Barnard, CHOICE Alternative High School, and the Shelton School District Superintendent.