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Sen. Harry Reid

Mr. President, we were notified last night that Dr. Heath Morrison, Superintendent of the Washoe County School District--that is Reno and the metropolitan area there--is being named the 2012 Superintendent of the Year by the American Association of School Administrators.

He is just a good person. He hasn't been there that long, but he came as a superstar and has changed that school district dramatically. He has raised student achievement, and he has improved the graduation rate. He has great teachers, administrators, and the whole staff has done very well.

During the short time he has been there--some 2 years--the graduation rates have increased by almost 25 percent. That is unheard of around this country, and this is a metropolitan area. His success is a testament to the impact quality educators have on school achievement and on students' lives.

I was pleased to submit a letter in support of Dr. Morrison's candidacy for this honor. He certainly deserves this recognition. So I look forward to continuing my work with Dr. Morrison and the Washoe County School District to help improve education for Nevada students. The entire school district, including the school board, is to be commended.