AL HJR211

Commends Cathy W. Gassenheimer for her contributions and leadership at the A-Plus Education Partnership, a nonprofit organization in Montgomery, Alabama focused on creating great schools and preparing students for college, career, and life.

Recognizes her role as the organization's first employee in 1991 and her leadership in developing the Blueprint for Successful Alabama Schools and organizing 22 town hall meetings that engaged over 23,000 Alabamians.

Acknowledges her establishment of the Task Force on Teaching and Student Learning in 1999, which led to adoption of national professional development standards, $5,000 teacher certifications stipends, and the Best Practices Center.

Notes her creation of educator networks including the Powerful Conversations Network, Key Leaders and Superintendents Networks, and the Instructional Partners Network, which collectively serve 14 regional networks and over 27,000 educators in 112 school systems.

Honors her 31 years of service to Alabama students and educators, and extends best wishes for her retirement.