SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 403

WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas is pleased to recognize Nika Maples, who has been named Texas Secondary Teacher of the Year by the Texas Education Agency; and

WHEREAS, An English teacher at Fossil Ridge High School in the Keller Independent School District, Nika Maples has overcome a massive stroke she suffered at the age of 20, and her example serves as a daily inspiration to her students; and

WHEREAS, An exceptionally resourceful and dedicated teacher, Nika Maples is an enthusiastic educator whose skillful teaching methods motivate her students to strive for excellence; and

WHEREAS, Her encouragement, her wise counsel, and her vivid personal example of overcoming the odds foster a positive classroom environment and allow her students to feel self-confident in their studies and to take part in meaningful learning experiences; and

WHEREAS, Nika Maples believes that the best teaching is personal and that teachers should incorporate personal experience to capture a student's imagination; she is a gifted leader and instructor who instills in her students a sense of pride and a lifelong love of learning; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 80th Legislature, hereby commend Nika Maples for her commitment to her students and extend heartfelt congratulations to her on being named Texas Secondary Teacher of the Year; and, be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for her as an expression of high regard from the Texas Senate. Nelson

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President of the Senate

I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on March 7, 2007.

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Secretary of the Senate

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Member, Texas Senate