In Recognition of Michele Pecina, California's National Distinguished Principal of the Year

IN RECOGNITION OF MICHELE PECINA, CALIFORNIA'S NATIONAL DISTINGUISHED PRINCIPAL OF THE YEAR

Mrs. BOXER. Mr. President, I rise today to bring to the Senate's attention an exceptional educator—Michele Pecina, the principal of James Monroe Elementary School in Madera, CA.

Michele Pecina was recently named California's National Distinguished Principal of the Year by the National Association of Elementary School Principals. She will receive her award in November in Washington, DC.

For 9 years, Michele Pecina has been the principal at James Monroe Elementary School. Under her expert guidance, the school was named a California Distinguished School in 1997 and has also received two Bell awards from the California School Boards Association. Michele Pecina believes in her students and teachers and demonstrates that belief to them every day. The result is they believe in themselves. their success in school, and in life, is remarkable.

Californians are extremely proud of Michele Pecina. I am honored to pay tribute to her. I encourage my colleagues to join me in wishing Michele Pecina continued success as she continues her exceptional work in education.