SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 73

WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas is pleased to join the Fort Bend Independent School District, the students, faculty, and staff of Christa McAuliffe Middle School, and Texans across the state in celebrating January 28, 2009, as Christa McAuliffe Day; and

WHEREAS, Known as the first teacher in space, Christa McAuliffe was a civilian mission specialist aboard the Challenger space shuttle, whose mission was tragically cut short by an explosion shortly after launch on January 28, 1986; she left behind a legacy of determination, courage, cooperation, and the enthusiasm and commitment to strive for the seemingly unattainable; and

WHEREAS, The students, faculty, and staff of Christa McAuliffe Middle School were recently put to the test of those values when their school suffered severe damage as a result of Hurricane Ike; and

WHEREAS, The Christa McAuliffe Middle School community persevered through its hardships, making a three-day transition to another school building for classes and maintaining a spirit of cooperation while awaiting the repairs on their own building; and

WHEREAS, It is truly fitting that all Texans pay tribute to the life and legacy of Christa McAuliffe and acknowledge her contributions as a teacher, a pioneer, and an exemplary role model; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 81st Legislature, hereby commend the students, faculty, and staff of Christa McAuliffe Middle School on their resolve and determination and extend to them best wishes for a memorable Christa McAuliffe Day; and, be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for Christa McAuliffe Middle School as an expression of esteem from the Texas Senate.

Ellis

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President of the Senate

I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on January 28, 2009.

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Secretary of the Senate

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Member, Texas Senate