Marco Rubio

Mr. RUBIO

Mr. RUBIO. Mr. President, today I am pleased to recognize Sallie Murphy, the Gadsden County Teacher of the Year from Greensboro Elementary School in Quincy, FL. Sallie always wanted to make a difference in the lives of children. If she is able to do that each day, it makes her want to come to school and work with a smile on her face. Her students describe her as a great teacher, and they appreciate her help in understanding what they are reading. Sallie teaches third grade at Greensboro Elementary School. She is in her 7th year of teaching. Sallie's mother, Patsy, was also a teacher at the same school for 33 years and knew Sallie would be a great teacher. I offer my sincere gratitude to Sallie for her dedication to her students. I look forward to hearing of her continued good work in the years to come.

Mr. RUBIO

Mr. RUBIO. Mr. President, today I am pleased to recognize Shaneika Pride, the Madison County Teacher of the Year from Madison County Central School in Madison, FL. Shaneika values lifelong relationships with her students as an important part of her role as an educator, especially during distance learning through these unprecedented times. She enjoys the opportunity to connect with her students and looks forward to hearing of their successes after leaving her classroom. Throughout Shaneika's educational career, she has mentored not only her students, but also first-year teachers and student-athletes by coaching volleyball. She relishes the chance to share her educational experiences with both students and new teachers. Shaneika teaches fourth grade math and science at Madison County Central School and has been an educator for the past 15 years. Previously, she taught third grade for many years at her school before moving to the fourth grade. I offer my sincere gratitude to Shaneika for her years of work teaching and coaching students and look forward to hearing of her continued good work in the years to come.

Mr. RUBIO

Mr. RUBIO. Mr. President, today I am pleased to recognize Tara Ward, the Franklin County Teacher of the Year from Apalachicola Bay Charter School in Apalachicola, FL. Tara is the first teacher from Apalachicola Bay Charter School to be named Franklin County's Teacher of the Year. Tara began teaching in 2004 and spent a year of team-teaching fourth and fifth grade language arts and history. For the past 14 years, she has taught sixth grade world history and eighth grade language arts. Originally from Michigan, she had only planned to stay in Florida for 2 years to get teaching experience. Tara earned a bachelor's degree in education from Grove City College and briefly taught in Pennsylvania and Michigan. She and her husband Kevin and their three daughters reside in Apalachicola. I extend my deepest gratitude to Tara for her years of dedication. I look forward to hearing of her continued good work in the years to come.

Mr. RUBIO

Mr. RUBIO. Mr. President, I pay tribute to the memory of Ben Hill Griffin, III, a lifelong resident of Polk County who left a lasting impact on Florida and the citrus industry. Ben Hill Griffin, III, was born on March 3, 1942, in Frostproof, FL, to Ben Hill Griffin, Jr., and his wife, Frances. The only son of five children, Ben Hill worked his father's cattle ranches and citrus fields at a young age, learning early that success requires hard work and long hours. While attending Frostproof High School, Ben Hill played several sports and attended Boys' State, where he was fittingly elected commissioner of agriculture. After graduation, he attended the University of Florida before returning home to Frostproof. Ben Hill spent a year at the Lake Alfred Experiment Station, gaining experience with various aspects of the citrus industry before joining his father's business. He spent a year and a half working in the fertilizer division, 3 years in the harvesting division, and 2 years in the processing and sales divisions. After paying his dues, his father welcomed him into Ben Hill Griffin, Inc., naming him president and chief operating officer. He would later serve as its chairman of the board and chief executive officer. Throughout his career, Ben Hill was recognized as a thoughtful leader and savvy businessman within the Florida agricultural and citrus industries and statewide business communities. He was elected to numerous corporate boards, served in leadership positions and they became better companies under his leadership. During his time as chairman of the Florida Citrus Commission, Ben Hill flew to New York to defend the State from negative media coverage. He succeeded in his efforts to have processed products branded with the Florida symbol and was inducted into the Florida Citrus Hall of Fame in 2009, the Florida Agriculture Hall of Fame in 2010, and the Frostproof High School Hall of Fame in 2010. Even in the face of the challenges before the industry, he continued to invest in Florida citrus and believed in Florida agriculture and her producers. Ben Hill was also a benefactor of higher education, including the University of Florida and Florida Gulf Coast University, of which he donated the land for the university's construction. He served as a board member for both university's foundations. He was steadfast in ensuring scholarships were available at numerous Florida institutions to help students attending college to use the opportunity to fulfill their dreams. My wife Jeanette and I express our heartfelt condolences to his children and grandchildren on the loss of an important leader and great Floridian. May God bless his family during this time of sorrow.

Mr. RUBIO

Mr. RUBIO. Mr. President, today I am pleased to recognize Vincent Miller, the Polk County Teacher of the Year from Winter Haven High School in Winter Haven, FL. Vincent believes as teachers enter their classrooms, they should ask themselves a few simple questions: What will they add to their students' lives? What class memories will students remember? How will they, themselves, be remembered by students? He says teachers should be intentional with their approach to meeting students' needs, knowing students are more than just a score or a test; they are the future. Vincent credits his successes today to his former teachers for creating countless memories when he was a student. Being cast by one teacher for a school play changed his life, allowing him to travel the world and perform on cruise ships before becoming a teacher at his alma mater. Vincent is a math teacher and the girls' basketball coach at Winter Haven High School. He also mentors students, provides afterschool tutoring lessons, hosts a back-to-school supplies event, and sponsors the Key Club and the Culture Club. Vincent holds a doctorate degree in education from Lynn University and is an adjunct professor at Southeastern University. I offer my sincere gratitude to Vincent for his commitment to teaching. I look forward to hearing of his continued success in the years to come.

Mr. RUBIO

Mr. RUBIO. Mr. President, today I honor Sheryl Avery, the Liberty County Teacher of the Year from Liberty County High School in Bristol, FL. Sheryl believes that being a teacher means understanding her students will eventually become leaders of our society. Her lifelong goal is to seek opportunities to change the world, which she believes can be done from the classroom. Sheryl believes that writing is an important skill. It is a skill that all students need to know, not just for school, but for when they join the workforce. She is a published author with three works in print and enjoys writing in her spare time. Sheryl teaches English for ninth and tenth graders at Liberty County High School. She has worked as an educator for 21 years, with 19 years in the Liberty County School System. She earned her bachelor's degree in English and ESOL from Armstrong Atlantic State University, her master's degree in curriculum and instruction from Georgia Southern University, and is currently studying for her doctorate degree in theology from South University. I extend my best wishes to Sheryl on her more than two decades of teaching students. I look forward to hearing of her continued good work in the years to come.

Mr. RUBIO

Mr. RUBIO. Mr. President, as chairman of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each week I recognize a small business that exemplifies the American entrepreneurial spirit at the heart of our country. It is my privilege to recognize a family-owned small business that builds high-quality projects and is actively involved in several community organizations. This week, it is my pleasure to honor JWR Construction Services, Inc., of Deerfield Beach, FL, as the Senate Small Business of the Week. In 1985, Jerry DuBois and William Gallo founded JWR Construction Services in Deerfield Beach, FL. Recognizing a need for well-built commercial buildings, they combined Jerry's project management expertise and William's architectural skill to start their general contracting and construction management firm. From the beginning, Jerry and William established passion, respect, ownership, service, and safety as the core values of their company. They prioritized customer service and community involvement. Over the next 35 years, JWR Construction finished construction projects throughout Florida. They have built affordable multi-family housing, healthcare facilities, and senior living centers, along with commercial and industrial facilities. Notably, JWR Construction has completed projects for the University of Miami, Johnson & Wales University, Nova Southeastern University, and Florida Atlantic University. JWR Construction creates dignified work for their employees and contractors, ensuring social mobility and supporting the skilled trades. They emphasize hiring veterans including Jerry's son, Dustin, who is a U.S. Navy veteran. Dustin served for 5 years as a machinist mate and special warfare combatant-craft crewman. He joined the family business in 2009 and currently serves as its chief operating officer. Through their leadership and service, JWR Construction has advocated for the contracting industry and south Florida community. In addition to earning several local industry awards, JWR Construction is active in the Associated Builders and Contractors Florida East Coast chapter, with two members serving on the local 2020 board of directors. JWR Construction has partnered with dozens of community organizations, including the Boys and Girls Club, the Deerfield Beach Little League team, and the Broward Navy Days. Jerry serves on the board of Rebuilding Together Broward, which revitalizes homes for low-income individuals, especially veterans. Like many Floridian small businesses, JWR Construction Services stepped up to support its community during the coronavirus pandemic. When the Deerfield Beach Housing Authority hosted its seventh Annual Destination Graduation for local low-income high school seniors, JWR Construction helped organize a drive-through graduation celebration. They provided a laptop for each graduating student, donating a total of $14,000 in graduation gifts. When the U.S. Small Business Administration launched the Paycheck Protection Program, Jerry and William applied immediately. The PPP provides forgivable loans to impacted small businesses and nonprofits who maintain their payroll during the COVID-19 pandemic. In April 2019, JWR Construction received a PPP loan, which enabled them to keep 37 employees paid and allowed them to safely continue their essential work in south Florida. JWR Construction Services is an incredible example of how hard work and strong values can create a business that is both successful and beneficial to the community that it serves. I commend their important work. Congratulations to Jerry, William, Dustin, and the entire team at JWR Construction Services. I look forward to watching your continued growth and investment in the south Florida community.

Mr. RUBIO

Mr. RUBIO. Mr. President, today I am pleased to recognize Cynthia Barrett, the Highlands County Teacher of the Year from Avon Park High School in Avon Park, FL. Cynthia believes teaching is more than just a job. She holds her students to high expectations, knowing they are in advanced classes and will soon become leaders throughout their communities. Cynthia appreciates this award is more than just a recognition of her hard work, but also an acknowledgement of the hard work her students put in each day. Cynthia teaches AP world history and economics/honors at Avon Park High School. She has taught in Highlands County since 1994 and previously taught in Leon County from 1989 to 1994. Cynthia is a graduate of Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University. I offer my sincere gratitude to Cynthia on her dedication to teaching students throughout the school year. I look forward to hearing of her continued good work in the coming years.

Mr. RUBIO

Mr. RUBIO. Mr. President, today I recognize Elizabeth Camp, the Sumter County Teacher of the Year from Wildwood Elementary School in Wildwood, FL. Elizabeth believes that teachers hold several roles in the lives of their students. For example, they are responsible for imparting knowledge, as well as providing guidance and leadership related to many of life's skills. She often considers teachers to be surrogate family members for their students. Elizabeth's philosophy for teaching is one that states all students can learn and grow, no matter their background. She embodies the principle that having enthusiasm for learning is required to propel students, as well as others in the learning community, and makes for a more positive educational environment. Elizabeth teaches fifth grade math and science at Wildwood Elementary School and has been a teacher for 21 years. She graduated from the University of Central Florida with a bachelor's degree in elementary education. I extend my best wishes to Elizabeth on the decades she has devoted to teaching her students. I look forward to hearing of her continued success in the coming years.

Mr. RUBIO

Mr. RUBIO. Mr. President, today I am pleased to recognize Jerry Webb, the Taylor County Teacher of the Year from Taylor County Elementary School in Perry, FL. Jerry dedicates himself as an educator by putting his students first. He tutors them on subjects they are struggling with and makes himself available to talk about anything they need to discuss. Jerry works to make a difference in the lives of his students in any way that he can. Superintendent, Dr. Danny Glover, Jr., notes Jerry's innovative teaching style is something not easily replicated and is a part of the reason he won this important award. Dr. Glover noted how fortunate the Taylor County School District is to have Jerry. Jerry has taught fourth and fifth grades at Taylor County Elementary School for the past 6 years. Previously, he worked as a paraprofessional at the school before becoming a grade school teacher. I extend my best wishes to Jerry and look forward to hearing of his continued success in the years to come.

Mr. RUBIO

Mr. RUBIO. Mr. President, today I am pleased to recognize Carrie Wilson, the Hernando County Teacher of the Year from Challenger K-8 School of Science and Mathematics in Spring Hill, FL. Carrie wants students to feel their school is like their home and to know they are cared for and valued when coming to class. She is very grateful to receive this important recognition as it represents the many passionate professionals who work in the Hernando County School District. Carrie has been a school counselor since 2001 and is in her 21st year working in elementary education. She is a graduate of the University of South Florida and earned her graduate degree in counseling and psychology from Troy State. She works to raise awareness to students' mental health and encourages others to see themselves as a partner in helping those who need that support. I offer my sincere gratitude to Carrie for her more than two decades of helping students. I look forward to hearing of her continued good work in the years to come.

Mr. RUBIO

Mr. RUBIO. Mr. President, today I recognize Heather Young, the Sarasota County Teacher of the Year from Venice Elementary School in Venice, FL. Heather has been a teacher for 22 years and is in her first year of teaching visual arts at Venice Elementary School. Previously, she taught gifted students in elementary school through middle school in Sarasota County Schools. Heather makes her art room a great venue for teaching her students, whether they are gifted or intellectually disabled. She uses art to teach innovative ways to facilitate problem-solving, risk-taking, and creative decisionmaking skills. Heather believes there is no better way to spend her day than having a classroom that is a creative outlet for students. She tries to get them to stop questioning whether they can do something and, instead, empowers them to be creative on their own. I offer my sincere gratitude to Heather for the good work she does for her students. I look forward to hearing of her continued success in the years to come.

Mr. RUBIO

Mr. RUBIO. Mr. President, today I am pleased to recognize Devan Roulhac, the Calhoun County Teacher of the Year from Blountstown High School in Blountstown, FL. Devan's inspiration as an educator is to learn more about his students. He does this because we typically do not know the realities some students endure after leaving the classroom or how deeply those negative experiences affect their mental health and personal well- being. His inspiration comes from his own personal experience as a student. Devan knows some students have it worse than what he experienced and has realized the students he teaches today mimic the same front he put on while in school. This thought process is what drives his every decision to help those students who need it the most. Devan is an English I teacher at Blountstown High School. He began his teaching career in 2017 teaching English and reading at Wewahitchka Jr./Sr. High School. Currently, Devan is developing a curriculum for teaching freshman English courses that meet Florida standards, focusing on informational text analyses, argumentative writing, and grammar mechanics. I extend my deepest gratitude to Devan for his commitment to teaching and making a difference in the lives of his students. I look forward to hearing of his good work in the years to come.

Mr. RUBIO

Mr. RUBIO. Mr. President, today I am pleased to recognize Jessica Price, the Citrus County Teacher of the Year from Lecanto High School in Lecanto, FL. Although she never planned to become a Spanish teacher, Jessica's passion for sharing a love for language makes her an excellent educator. Jessica loved learning as a student in Citrus County, focusing on Spanish and chorus as her favorite classes. She had originally planned to become a music teacher, but Spanish captivated her to teach the language to students each year. In college, she studied in Mexico, living with a family and immersing herself in Spanish culture, furthering her love of the Spanish language. Jessica teaches Spanish at Lecanto High School and has been a teacher since 2011. She majored in Spanish and English, with minors in linguistics and teaching English as a second language from the University of Florida. Jessica also oversees her school's honor society. I extend my best wishes to Jessica and look forward to learning of her continued success in the years to come.

Mr. RUBIO

Mr. RUBIO. Mr. President, today I am pleased to recognize Diana O'Connor, the Indian River County Teacher of the Year from Beachland Elementary School in Vero Beach, FL. Diana instills her love for learning in each student, knowing this is important for them today and later in their academic careers. Diana began a schoolwide initiative for collecting soda can tabs for Ronald McDonald House Charities and is one of the lead representatives for her school's Leukemia and Lymphoma Society's Pennies for Patients program. She brings awareness of these issues to her students to assist their classmates who may be in need of help without their classmates knowing about it. Diana is the exceptional student education department chair and assists general education teachers in planning standards-based instruction and diverse lesson plans at Beachland Elementary School. She is also an ESOL endorsed educator. Diana graduated cum laude from the University of Central Florida with a bachelor's degree in specific learning disabilities for kindergarten through twelfth grade and is currently working towards her reading endorsement. Diana is a certified crisis prevention and intervention educator, a clinical educator, and an Indian River County Education Association member. I offer my sincere gratitude to Diana for helping students learn throughout the school year. I look forward to hearing of her continued success in the years to come.

Mr. RUBIO

Mr. RUBIO. Mr. President, today I recognize Christine O'Hara, the Charlotte County Teacher of the Year from Peace River Elementary School in Charlotte Harbor, FL. Christine enjoys sharing her passion for math with teachers and students and believes everyone is a math person at heart. She enjoys utilizing the learning experience to make math enjoyable and successful for her students. In 2016 and 2017, Christine was identified as a High Impact Teacher by the Florida Department of Education. Her fourth grade students' growth on State testing was among the most positive in the State. Christine is a math coach at Peace River Elementary School, teaching in Florida for 13 years, with 6 of them in Charlotte County. Last year, she became an instructional math coach and is a member of the District Elementary Math Framework committee. She graduated from Central Michigan University in 2005. Outside of her classroom, Christine teaches group fitness classes and enjoy fishing in Charlotte Harbor with her fiance, Travis. I congratulate Christine on her hard work for her students over the years. I extend my best wishes and look forward to hearing of her continued success in the years ahead.

Mr. RUBIO

Mr. RUBIO. Mr. President, today I recognize Katrina Roddenberry, the Wakulla County Teacher of the Year from Wakulla Middle School in Crawfordville, FL. Katrina finds it incredibly rewarding to see students motivated by science experiments and researching on their own about careers in science fields. She strives to spark their interests, which helped to raise Wakulla Middle School's average science proficiency on the Florida Science Assessment for eighth grade by 23 percent, which is 21 percent above the State average. Katrina created and sponsors her school's science, technology, engineering, and math club, is an Odyssey of the Mind coach, Fellowship of Christian Athletes cosponsor, and is a teacher coach. She believes the ultimate measure of her success as a science teacher is when her students leave her classroom with strong foundational knowledge of science concepts and a renewed curiosity and love of learning about the world around them. Katrina is in her third year of teaching middle school science and high school credit integrated science and integrated science honors to eighth graders at Wakulla Middle School. Previously, she taught third and fifth grade at Riversink Elementary School and is in her 12th year of teaching. She received her bachelor's degree in elementary education from Flagler College, earned certifications in exceptional student education, middle grades integrated, and general science for sixth through ninth grades. She received her master's degree from American College of Education in curriculum and instruction with a concentration in teaching science and is an adjunct professor at Flagler College in Tallahassee. Katrina is also a NASA Space Foundation Teacher Liaison, is on the Space Educators Expedition Crew, and is a member of the National Science Teachers Association and the Florida Association of Science Teachers. I offer my sincere gratitude to Katrina for her years of hard work. I look forward to hearing of her continued good work in the years to come.

Mr. RUBIO

Mr. RUBIO. Mr. President, today I recognize Jennifer Dixon, the Pasco County Teacher of the Year from Gulf High School in New Port Richey, FL. Jennifer is excited to come to work every day because of her students. She finds it a great honor to work with them, to understand them, to teach them, and to help them grow throughout the school year. High school was not Jennifer's favorite time in her life, and she believes other students should not have a similar experience. She credits teachers she had throughout her educational career for making a difference, helping her to become the first person in her family to graduate from college. Jennifer teaches economics, financial literacy, and psychology at Gulf High School. She became a teacher in 2003 and is certified to teach art K-12, exceptional student education K-12, business education for grades 6-12, and social studies for grades 6-12. She received her master's degree in education from Eastern New Mexico University and is currently pursuing a doctorate degree in educational leadership policy from Texas Tech University. I extend my best wishes to Jennifer and look forward to hearing of her continued success in the coming years.

Mr. RUBIO

Mr. RUBIO. Mr. President, as chairman of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each week I recognize a small business that exemplifies the American entrepreneurial spirit at the heart of our country. It is my privilege to recognize a woman-owned small business known for its excellence in industry and environmental stewardship. This week, it is my pleasure to honor Hydra Engineering and Construction, LLC, of Crawfordville, FL, as the Senate Small Business of the Week. In 2008, Leslie Hope established Hydra Engineering after she left her position as a partner in an engineering firm to pursue her dream of being a small business owner. After graduating from the University of South Florida, Leslie started planning how to open her own engineering company. Leslie turned to her local Small Business Development Center where she enrolled Hydra Engineering in the U.S. Small Business Administration's 8(a) business development program. This program provides resources, mentorship, and training to help small businesses owned by socially and economically disadvantaged persons compete for government contracts. Over the next 12 years, Leslie rebranded her enterprise as Hydra Engineering and Construction to reflect its growth and expansion. She completed the 8(a) program, was certified by the State of Florida as a Minority Business Enterprise and as a Disadvantaged Business Enterprise by the U.S. Department of Transportation. Hydra Engineering has worked for several Florida private companies and agencies, including the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. They have completed projects in 16 other States, working for the National Park Service, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and the U.S. Forest Service. For their entrepreneurship, innovation and environmental stewardship, Hydra Engineering has been recognized by local, State, and industry organizations. In 2018, they were nominated as a GrowFL Florida Company to Watch, recognizing their status as a Floridian second-stage company demonstrating high marketplace performance and innovation. As one of the world's fastest growing USF-alumni owned or led businesses, Hydra Engineering earned the USF Fast 56 Award in 2016 and 2018. Additionally, Leslie was nominated as the 2011 SBA North Florida Region Small Business Person of the Year. She also sits on the Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University-Florida State University Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering Advisory Board. Like many small businesses across Florida, Hydra was impacted by the coronavirus pandemic. When the U.S. Small Business Administration launched the Paycheck Protection Program, Leslie applied for funding. The PPP provides forgivable loans to impacted small businesses and nonprofits who maintain their payroll during the COVID-19 pandemic. Thanks to the PPP, Hydra Engineering is able to support its employees, many who work and reside in Wakulla County. Hydra Engineering and Construction demonstrates how small firms use SBA resources to grow. I applaud their commitment to excellence and unique role in supporting Florida's critical infrastructure. Congratulations to Leslie and the entire team, I look forward to watching your continued growth and success in Florida.

Mr. RUBIO

Mr. RUBIO. Madam President, I ask unanimous consent that the order for the quorum call be rescinded.

Mr. RUBIO

Mr. RUBIO. Mr. President, to follow up on Senator Collins' outline of the second round of PPP, I think it is important, first, to remind everybody how we got to this place. The goal, when we did it the first time, was to not only allow small businesses to survive what was then uncertain as to how long it would take but also to keep their workers attached to employment. We know how devastating it is to a family and to an individual when they get disconnected from employment, and, by and large, we believe the program has been incredibly successful. But it has room for improvement, and we have learned from those things along the way with some of the different changes that were made in providing more flexibility and the like. This new program comes at a timely moment because we are now beginning to see that as the PPP funds are being exhausted, some companies are having to face, once again, the potential of having to lay off some of their workers. That is why it is time for a second round of PPP assistance. A lot of the provisions will be very familiar. You have heard them already--the 2\1/2\ percent payroll and so forth--but some are new because we really wanted this to be more targeted. That is why there is the 300-employee-or-less standard, and you have to have 50 percent or more of revenue reduction. We also understand that some communities have been harder hit, for a variety of different reasons, and especially the sort of microbusinesses--the smaller ones. Some of these funds will be set aside for employers that have 10 employees or less, to make sure that the money doesn't run out without that group of small businesses getting the assistance they need. In addition, we know that minority and underserved small businesses have been disproportionately impacted by the lockdowns that we have seen. Many of them, obviously, often lack significant cash reserves. They historically face challenges being able to get traditional means of capital. So, as part of this proposal, separate from PPP and in addition to it, we are proposing an additional type of loan that would be longer term, more targeted, and at low interest, designated for small businesses that are either seasonal employers or located in low- income communities and have 500 or fewer employees. It provides them flexible long-term working capital to help ensure that these most vulnerable and underserved small businesses don't go out of business because of the pandemic but allows them to borrow up to two times their annual revenues on a 20-year loan term at 1 percent interest. Again, don't confuse that with PPP. This is a separate target product to try to help those who are in low-income neighborhoods, as defined by their census track. So, consider, for example, a small business with $400,000. A 5-year loan at 7\1/2\ percent interest rate, that today would be equal to $8,000 monthly payments. But if they are able to refinance that existing loan at 1 percent, the payments fall to $1,840. So it is an additional amount of assistance. The bottom line is that we all recognize the importance of small business. We should all recognize that this is not a bailout. These are viable businesses, and the only reason they are struggling is because the government has stepped in--like it does, for example, in eminent domain--and said: For the public good, it is important for us to infringe upon your right to make money and conduct business. I think when government does that in the public good, just like in eminent domain, the government also has an obligation to step forward and help these companies from going out of business. Otherwise, we will lose not just the backbone of our economy but the millions of jobs that come with it, and the impact would be catastrophic. I yield the floor.

Mr. RUBIO

Mr. RUBIO. Mr. President, today I am pleased to honor Leena Hall-Young, the Duval County Teacher of the Year at Raines High School in Jacksonville, FL. Leena is a tenth grade language arts teacher at Raines High School where she considers her role as a teacher to be a facilitator in releasing every child's potential. Superintendent Diana Greene describes Leena as a vibrant and talented educator who has dedicated her career to her students. Leena is credited with fostering a professional learning environment for her colleagues. Under her leadership, her school has seen reading proficiency rates increase by double digits. Leena is the chairwoman of the English language arts department and helps to create learning opportunities for her colleagues by supporting first year teachers. She also participates in Duval County's Innovative Educator Program. I extend my best wishes and thanks to Leena for her passion as a teacher, and I look forward to learning of her continued good work.

Mr. RUBIO

Mr. RUBIO. Mr. President, today I am pleased to recognize Travis O'Steen, the Dixie County Teacher of the Year at Dixie County High School in Cross City, FL. Travis currently teaches U.S. history at Dixie County High School. Travis earned his bachelor's degree in religion and history from William Carey University. After completing his world travels, he felt he could bring his studies and global experience as a teacher to his students. Previously, he taught finance, English, and the performing arts for high school students. Travis has always been interested in learning why people believe in what they do. This has led him to travel the world to research history, cultures, and archaeology. After returning home, he found that these teaching experiences enhanced his own classroom instruction. This enhanced knowledge has enabled him to help his students to better understand and develop a passion for American and world history. I express my sincere thanks and appreciation to Travis for his devotion to helping his students to succeed. I look forward to hearing of his continued success in his future endeavors.

Mr. RUBIO

Mr. RUBIO. Mr. President, today I recognize Rob Paschall, the Orange County Teacher of the Year at West Creek Elementary School in Orlando, FL. Rob has been an educator for 27 years and currently teaches fifth grade at West Creek Elementary School. In the past year, more than 80 percent of Rob's students demonstrated learning gains, one of many measurable changes credited to his teaching practices. Outside of the classroom, Rob regularly sponsors the school safety patrols, serves as a teacher liaison for the PTA, and works closely with the Florida Department of Education's Writing Rangefinder Committee. Throughout his educational career, Rob looks to find at least one success each day worth celebrating. He believes in teaching intentionally and works to understand his student's unique learning styles. Rob develops lesson plans designed to meet the needs of each student, highlighting their strengths and finding areas in need of improvement. Colleagues describe Rob as a humble teacher that enjoys educating younger generations. He strives to help his students improve each day and attributes their growth and success to their dedication and hard work. I would like to express my sincere appreciation to Rob for his strong commitment to his students. I look forward to hearing of his continued good work in the years to come.

Mr. RUBIO

Mr. RUBIO. Mr. President, today I recognize Lori Price, the St. Johns County Teacher of the Year from the Webster School in St. Augustine, FL. Lori teaches first grade at the Webster School and believes in giving her students the opportunity to succeed no matter their circumstances. She is honored to be the person who pushes her students to go above and beyond what is expected of them. A veteran teacher of more than 30 years, Lori has a positive approach to teaching math. She prompts her students to think like mathematicians so they can develop confidence in their ability to solve problems. Lori has faith in her students and considers it her job as an educator to help them reach their potential. She sets high expectations in the classroom to allow students to see challenges as opportunities. She loves to create a space in which children can confidently undertake challenges. In addition to organizing the St. Johns County Math Conference and presenting at various mathematics conferences, Lori also offers monthly professional development meetings for her fellow math teachers. She is passionate about investing in her colleagues and hopes her work makes an impact on students in her district and beyond. I convey my best wishes to Lori for her dedication to her students. I look forward to hearing of her continued success.