SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 874

	WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas takes pleasure 
in recognizing Rod Tate, who is retiring from Early Middle School 
in the Early Independent School District in May of 2003; and
	WHEREAS, Rod attended Tarleton State University with a 
major in agribusiness until he substituted for his wife, a 
teacher in Whitt, and realized his future would be in teaching; 
he changed his major, and in 1973, he earned a bachelor of science 
degree in elementary education and history; and
	WHEREAS, He later earned a master's degree in educational 
administration and mid-management certification, but he 
preferred to remain as a teacher in the classroom; he taught 
fifth grade at Mineral Wells Cullen Grimes Elementary School and 
coached intermediate physical education; and
	WHEREAS, At Early Elementary School, he has been teaching 
Texas, American, and world history, and as coach of the 
University Interscholastic League Modern Oratory Team, he saw 
his students consistently place in the top three categories; more 
than a teacher, Rod Tate has been a true mentor to his students 
and has consistently shown interest in their activities, such as 
football, band, choir, track, and art shows; and
	WHEREAS, The dedicated and resourceful teacher has always 
encouraged student participation in the classroom and has sought 
new and innovative teaching techniques to provide his students 
with the best possible foundation for learning; and
	WHEREAS, Rod Tate has had a positive influence on the lives 
of countless students, and his presence at Early Elementary 
School will be greatly missed; now, therefore, be it
	RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 
78th Legislature, hereby commend Rod Tate for his contributions 
to the field of education in Texas and extend to him best wishes 
for the retirement years ahead; and, be it further
	RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for 
Rod Tate as an expression of esteem from the Texas Senate.
                                                                          Fraser




________________________________ 
    President of the Senate
 
    I hereby certify that the 
above Resolution was adopted by 
the Senate on May 14, 2003.



________________________________ 
    Secretary of the Senate



________________________________ 
     Member, Texas Senate