WHEREAS, Civic education is the foundation of a representative democracy and an educated citizenry; and
     WHEREAS, It is important to have strong educational resources aimed at teaching students and the public about government to encourage meaningful participation in our democratic institutions and processes; and
     WHEREAS, Civic Education Day establishes a forum for civic educators from across the state to collaborate with legislators and other supporters; and
     WHEREAS, Many organizations such as TVW, Administrative Office of the Courts, Seattle CityClub, YMCA Youth and Government, 4-H Know Your Government, Legislative Civic Education, and Page School are dedicated to making civic education a priority for Washington State and its citizens; and
     WHEREAS, The contributions of committed teachers, principals, community leaders, parents, state employees, and volunteers contribute to the goals of these laudable organizations to create an engaged citizenry; and
     WHEREAS, For their role as outstanding civic educators the following individuals have been nominated for the Civic Educator of the Year Award: Jody Bell, Kelly Clark, Peggy Hutt, James Hendrickson, Mike Wilson, Malia Renner-Singer, Joshua Parker, Judi Best, Patti McMaster, Jeff Naslund, and Kelly Stromberg; and
     WHEREAS, The House of Representatives celebrate Civic Education Day and recognize the contributions of committed teachers, principals, community leaders, parents, state employees, interns, and volunteers as they help to create an engaged citizenry; and
     WHEREAS, The Washington State Civic Education Program was awarded the Kevin B. Harrington Award for Excellence in Democracy Education in 2012, an annual award given each year to the individual or organization that best informs students and the general public of the value and strength of our form of government;
     NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives honor, thank, and celebrate the civic educators of the state; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That a copy of this resolution be immediately transmitted by the Chief Clerk of the House of Representatives to the civic education organizations participating in Civic Education Day and the colleges and universities participating in the Washington State Legislative Internship Program.