Thanking teachers for committing "lives and professions to the cultivation of minds and the betterment of Nation"

Remarks as prepared:

"Mr. Speaker, this week is National Teacher Appreciation Week, and I rise to thank the countless men and women who strive each and every day to ensure that our nation's students of all ages can maximize their individual potential and put their dreams into motion.

Our future competitiveness as a nation is contingent upon learners of all ages attaining the skill, vision and knowhow to build the future.

The modern teacher has a challenging roll: to creativity assist each child on their path to realizing and achieving the maximum of their individual potential.

Mr. Speaker, let us all take a moment this week to recognize the compassionate individuals who dedicate their lives and professions to the cultivation of minds and the betterment of our great nation.

During this National Teacher Appreciation Week, let us not forget those teachers who have helped shape our own lives. They deserve our thanks and recognition. I yield back."