89R15059 KSM-D
 
  By: Holt H.R. No. 321
 
 
 
R E S O L U T I O N
         WHEREAS, The national TeenPact Leadership Schools
  organization has rendered exceptional service to youth across
  Texas; and
         WHEREAS, TeenPact traces its history to 1993, when founder
  Tim Echols first shared his idea for a program that would bring
  young people to the Georgia State Capitol to learn about the
  political process; 18 students met there for the organization's
  first class in 1994, and the following year, they served as peer
  mentors for the next cohort of students; the organization
  eventually expanded to serve all 50 states, and in Texas, more than
  5,000 students have participated in its classes over the past
  decade; and
         WHEREAS, Today, TeenPact offers a number of opportunities for
  leadership training to students ages 8 to 19; the organization
  features single-day classes for young students and their families
  as well as four-day courses on state government that take place at
  each state's capitol, and it also hosts workshops on political
  communication and alumni events; in Texas, TeenPact's involvement
  in the legislature has provided invaluable opportunities for
  students to interact with elected officials, participate in mock
  legislative sessions, and develop skills in public speaking and
  critical thinking; and
         WHEREAS, TeenPact's innovative educational programs have
  empowered countless young Texans to become informed and engaged
  citizens, and it is a pleasure to join in recognizing the
  organization for its efforts to inspire future generations of
  leaders; now, therefore, be it
         RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 89th Texas
  Legislature hereby honor TeenPact Leadership Schools for its
  service to Texas youth and extend to all those associated with the
  organization sincere best wishes for the future; and, be it further
         RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be
  prepared for the organization as an expression of high regard by the
  Texas House of Representatives.