It is a pleasure to join you to celebrate our "Rising Stars" in English Language Learning, including honorees Adela Weinstein and Carmen Perez-Hogan.

Now, the word "star" means different things to different people. To some it means Hollywood celebrity, fame and glitter.

That's not what it means today.

The teachers we recognize may not be famous—but they're stars to their students, their communities and their country.

You shine every day, no matter how difficult your work may become. You ignite a passion for learning that lights the way toward the future.

In many cases, your students become vital links to the outside world for their families. So it is not just one future you secure, but many.

It is our responsibility to be strong and supportive partners as you do.

So today I am honored to present the Award for Excellence in Teaching English Language Learners to Kathy Mellor of Davisville Middle School in North Kingstown, Rhode Island.

Kathy was also named 2004 National Teacher of the Year by President Bush, the first ELL teacher so chosen.

Kathy has taught for 24 years, nearly 20 of them at Davisville. Her words could be our motto: "Fads come and go, but good teaching is timeless." To other teachers, she says, "You can work well if you work well with others."

When Kathy began as an ELL teacher, she says, none of her students were at grade level. Today, I am happy to report, that is no longer the case.

Kathy understands that her job is to leave no child behind. And she does her job exceedingly well.

Kathy knows that the light of learning she sparks is every bit as essential as Lady Liberty's Torch in securing the American Dream. Because of her, many more young Americans will be able to achieve that Dream.

Congratulations, and well done.

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