WHEREAS, The Washington State Legislature is honored to recognize the outstanding work of Anacortes High School Principal Keith Rittel, who was recently named Washington's high school principal of the year; and
     WHEREAS, This award honors high school principals who show a commitment to their staff and students, and create a cooperative work environment through outstanding leadership and character; and
     WHEREAS, Keith Rittel has earned a master's degree in education and education administration at the University of Utah. He has served as principal at Anacortes High School for seven years, and as a school teacher or administrator for fifteen years; and
     WHEREAS, Throughout his career, he has been a man of vision, dedicated to improving the quality of education and giving his students more opportunities to attend college; and
     WHEREAS, Keith Rittel has successfully implemented a new schedule at Anacortes High School that has allowed students to better prepare for the WASL exam; and
     WHEREAS, The 10th grade WASL scores in Anacortes have gone up substantially in math, reading, and writing because of the new schedule implemented by Rittel, which has been a model for other schools to follow; and
     WHEREAS, We recognize that the principal of the year award is an excellent way to recognize the contributions of high school principals across the state and it also allows us to appreciate the positive leadership one can show as a high school principal; and
     WHEREAS, Keith Rittel truly deserves this award and we wish to congratulate him for his efforts and fine example;
     NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives commend Keith Rittel for his commitment to students and high standards of education, his innovation in leadership, and his enthusiasm for teaching; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be immediately transmitted by the Chief Clerk of the House of Representatives to Keith Rittel and his family, Anacortes High School, the Anacortes School Board, and the Association of Washington Principals.