WHEREAS, Mr. Charlie Groth has taught and coached students at the Curlew School District since the fall of 1978; and

WHEREAS, 2017 marks the conclusion of a rewarding 39-year career in education marked by an exceptional commitment to students and investment in their future; and

WHEREAS, Prior to his lifelong career in education, Mr. Groth graduated from Eastern Washington University with a degree in Education and went on to earn a Masters of Arts in Teaching from Grand Canyon College; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Groth taught business education where his first classroom consisted of 12 manual typewriters and two brand new electric typewriters; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Groth worked tirelessly over the years to make business education relevant for students in an ever-changing technological environment; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Groth helped create the school website, produced the school newsletter for over 10 years, helped for years in computer repairs and ordering, and helped get the school's business program Microsoft certification testing; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Groth served as athletic director for 17 years and coached 61 high school sports seasons: 18 years as girls basketball coach, 6 years as boys assistant basketball, 3 years cross country, and 34 years softball. He took the girls basketball one time to state and softball 11 times to state; winning the state title in 2007;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Washington State Senate recognize Charlie Groth for his outstanding 39 years of service as a teacher and coach at the Curlew School District, and wish him the very best in his retirement.