Today, October 20th, 2021, Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks (IA-02) spoke on the floor of the House of Representatives to recognize the faculty of Newton School Districts in Jasper County.
Mr. Speaker, today I rise to share a story about educators in my district literally going the extra mile to ensure their students’ success.
For the last few months, the Newton School District in Jasper County has reported a shortage of bus drivers, leaving many parents and students uncertain about how they would be able to make it to school each morning.
With the importance of education and safety in mind, Eric Vander Velden, a physical education teacher in the Newton School District, answered the call for help by driving a school bus when needed. This is part of a larger effort by Newton staff to do whatever they can to help their students succeed.
It is stories like these that remind us that our educators are the backbone of this country, and I couldn’t be more confident in our future knowing that the next generation is in their capable hands.
Thank you, Mr. Speaker, I yield back my time.
Original source can be found here
