Floor Statements

Madam President, in Iowa and across the United States, a new school year has begun. As you know, Iowa public schools have an excellent reputation nationwide, and Iowa students' test scores are among the highest in the Nation.

I would like to take just a few minutes today to salute the dedicated teachers, administrators, and school board members in the Chariton Community School District, and to report on their participation in a unique Federal partnership to repair and modernize school facilities.

This fall marks the 10th year of the Iowa Demonstration Construction

Grant Program. That is its formal name, but it is better known among educators in Iowa as the program of Harkin grants for Iowa public schools. Since 1998, I have been fortunate to secure a total of $121 million for the State government in Iowa, which selects worthy school districts to receive these grants for a range of renovation and repair efforts--everything from updating fire safety systems to building new schools or renovating existing facilities. In many cases, this Federal funding is used to leverage public and/or private local funding, so it often has a tremendous multiplier effect in a local school district.

The Chariton Community School District received several Harkin fire safety grants totaling $193,750 which it used to install fire alarm systems with emergency lighting and smoke detectors, replace doors with fire rated doors, and upgrade emergency exits in all five district facilities. The Federal grants have made it possible for the district to provide quality and safe schools for their students.

Excellent schools do not just pop up like mushrooms after a rain. They are the product of vision, leadership, persistence, and a tremendous amount of collaboration among local officials and concerned citizens. I salute superintendent Paula Wright and former superintendent Robert Newsum, the entire staff, administration, and governance in the Chariton Community School District. In particular, I'd like to recognize the leadership of the board of education-- president Chuck Crabtree, vice president Nick Hunter, Craig Huff, Craig Scott and Dave Rich as well as buildings and grounds director; Dave DeBok.

As we mark the 10th anniversary of the Harkin school grant program in Iowa, I am obliged to point out that many thousands of school buildings and facilities across the United States are in dire need of renovation or replacement. In my State of Iowa alone, according to a recent study, some 79 percent of public schools need to be upgraded or repaired. The harsh reality is that the average age of school buildings in the United States is nearly 50 years.

Too often, our children visit ultramodern shopping malls and gleaming sports arenas on weekends, but during the week go to school in rundown or antiquated facilities. This sends exactly the wrong message to our young people about our priorities. We have to do better.

That is why I am deeply grateful to the professionals and parents in the Chariton Community School District. There is no question that a quality public education for every child is a top priority in that community. I salute them, and wish them a very successful new school year.

Madam President, in Iowa and across the United States, a new school year has begun. As you know, Iowa public schools have an excellent reputation nationwide, and Iowa students' test scores are among the highest in the Nation.

I would like to take just a few minutes today to salute the dedicated teachers, administrators, and school board members in the Clarke Community School District, and to report on their participation in a unique Federal partnership to repair and modernize school facilities.

This fall marks the 10th year of the Iowa Demonstration Construction Grant Program. That is its formal name, but it is better known among educators in Iowa as the program of Harkin grants for Iowa public schools. Since 1998, I have been fortunate to secure a total of $121 million for the State government in Iowa, which selects worthy school districts to receive these grants for a range of renovation and repair efforts--everything from updating fire safety systems to building new schools or renovating existing facilities. In many cases, this Federal funding is used to leverage public and/or private local funding, so it often has a tremendous multiplier effect in a local school district.

The Clarke Community School District received three Harkin fire safety grants totaling $331,099 which it used to replace wiring and install fire escapes, fire doors, alarm systems, heat detectors, emergency lighting, and firewalls in district school buildings. The Federal grants have made it possible for the district to provide quality and safe schools for their students.

Excellent schools do not just pop up like mushrooms after a rain. They are the product of vision, leadership, persistence, and a tremendous amount of collaboration among local officials and concerned citizens. I salute superintendent Ned Cox and former superintendent Steve Waterman and the entire staff, administration, and governance in the Clarke Community School District. In particular, I would like to recognize the leadership of the board of education--president Linda Henry, vice president Ed White, Michael Evink, Mark Jones, Jeff Wilken, Steve O'Tool, and Larry Gibbs, and former board members Doug Stearns, Kris Lange, Kathy Seelinger, Duane Otto, Darwin Downing, Joni Nelson, Chuck DeVos, Carol Reisinger, Roger Cole, Michael Motsinger, and Kevin Dorland.

As we mark the 10th anniversary of the Harkin school grant program in Iowa, I am obliged to point out that many thousands of school buildings and facilities across the United States are in dire need of renovation or replacement. In my State of Iowa alone, according to a recent study, some 79 percent of public schools need to be upgraded or repaired. The harsh reality is that the average age of school buildings in the United States is nearly 50 years.

Too often, our children visit ultramodern shopping malls and gleaming sports arenas on weekends, but during the week go to school in rundown or antiquated facilities. This sends exactly the wrong message to our young people about our priorities. We have to do better.

That is why I am deeply grateful to the professionals and parents in the Clarke Community School District. There is no question that a quality public education for every child is a top priority in that community. I salute them, and wish them a very successful new school year.

Madam President, in Iowa and across the United States, a new school year has begun. As you know, Iowa public schools have an excellent reputation nationwide, and Iowa students' test scores are among the highest in the Nation.

I would like to take just a few minutes, today, to salute the dedicated teachers, administrators, and school board members in the Dows Community School District and to report on their participation in a unique Federal partnership to repair and modernize school facilities.

This fall marks the 10th year of the Iowa Demonstration Construction Grant Program, its formal name, but it is better known among educators in Iowa as the program of Harkin grants for Iowa public schools. Since 1998, I have been fortunate to secure a total of $121 million for the State government in Iowa, which selects worthy school districts to receive these grants for a range of renovation and repair efforts-- everything from updating fire-safety systems to building new schools or renovating existing facilities. In many cases, this Federal funding is used to leverage public and/or private local funding, so it often has a tremendous multiplier effect in a local school district.

The Dows Community School District received a 2002 Harkin grant totaling $77,787 to help replace boilers and ceiling tiles at the elementary and middle schools. The district also received two fire safety grants totaling $51,291 for emergency lighting, heat detectors, and other repairs at the schools. The Federal grants have made it possible for the district to provide quality and safe schools for their students.

Excellent schools do not just pop up like mushrooms after a rain. They are the product of vision, leadership, persistence, and a tremendous amount of collaboration among local officials and concerned citizens. I salute the entire staff, administration, and governance in the Dows Community School District. In particular, I would like to recognize the leadership of the board of education--Marty Osterman, Kristi Hinkle, Jon Bakker, Betty Ellis, and Corey Jacobson, and former board members Shelly Howard and Steve Tassinari. I would also like to recognize superintendent Dr. Robert Olson,

former superintendent Lyle Schwartz, board secretary Carol Hanson, and elementary school principal Sara Pralle.

As we mark the 10th anniversary of the Harkin school grant program in Iowa, I am obliged to point out that many thousands of school buildings and facilities across the United States are in dire need of renovation or replacement. In my State of Iowa alone, according to a recent study, some 79 percent of public schools need to be upgraded or repaired. The harsh reality is that the average age of school buildings in the United States is nearly 50 years.

Too often, our children visit ultramodern shopping malls and gleaming sports arenas on weekends but during the week go to school in rundown or antiquated facilities. This sends exactly the wrong message to our young people about our priorities. We have to do better.

That is why I am deeply grateful to the professionals and parents in the Dows Community School District. There is no question that a quality public education for every child is a top priority in that community. I salute them, and wish them a very successful new school year.

Madam President, in Iowa and across the United States, a new school year has begun. As you know, Iowa public schools have an excellent reputation nationwide, and Iowa students' test scores are among the highest in the Nation.

I would like to take just a few minutes today to salute the dedicated teachers, administrators, and school board members in the Glenwood Community School District and to report on their participation in a unique Federal partnership to repair and modernize school facilities.

This fall marks the 10th year of the Iowa Demonstration Construction Grant Program. That is its formal name, but it is better known among educators in Iowa as the program of Harkin grants for Iowa public schools. Since 1998, I have been fortunate to secure a total of $121 million for the State government in Iowa, which selects worthy school districts to receive these grants for a range of renovation and repair efforts--everything from updating fire-safety systems to building new schools or renovating existing facilities. In many cases, this Federal funding is used to leverage public and/or private local funding, so it often has a tremendous multiplier effect in a local school district.

The Glenwood Community School District received a 2002 Harkin grant totaling $871,000 which it used to help install a new HVAC system at the High School. This school is a modern, state-of-the-art facility that befits the educational ambitions and excellence of this school district. Indeed, it is the kind of school facility that every child in America deserves. The district also received a fire safety grant totaling $36,048. The Federal grants have made it possible for the district to provide quality and safe schools for their students.

Excellent schools do not just pop up like mushrooms after a rain. They are the product of vision, leadership, persistence, and a tremendous amount of collaboration among local officials and concerned citizens. I salute the entire staff, administration, and governance in the Glenwood Community School District. In particular, I would like to recognize the leadership of the board of education, Bill Agan, David Warren, Frank Overhue, Theresa Romens, and Linda Young, and former members, Nancy Krogstad, Paul Speck, and Marland Gammon. I would also like to recognize director of operations Dave Greenwood and former school improvement coordinator Kerry Newman and current superintendant Dr. Stan Sibley.

As we mark the 10th anniversary of the Harkin school grant program in Iowa, I am obliged to point out that many thousands of school buildings and facilities across the United States are in dire need of renovation or replacement. In my State of Iowa alone, according to a recent study, some 79 percent of public schools need to be upgraded or repaired. The harsh reality is that the average age of school buildings in the United States is nearly 50 years.

Too often, our children visit ultra-modern shopping malls and gleaming sports arenas on weekends but during the week go to school in rundown or antiquated facilities. This sends exactly the wrong message to our young people about our priorities. We have got to do better.

That is why I am deeply grateful to the professionals and parents in the Glenwood Community School District. There is no question that a quality public education for every child is a top priority in that community. I salute them and wish them a very successful new school year.

Madam President, in Iowa and across the United States, a new school year has begun. As you know, Iowa public schools have an excellent reputation nationwide, and Iowa students' test scores are among the highest in the Nation.

I would like to take just a few minutes today to salute the dedicated teachers, administrators, and school board members in the MOC-Floyd Valley Community School District, and to report on their participation in a unique Federal partnership to repair and modernize school facilities.

This fall marks the 10th year of the Iowa Demonstration Construction Grant Program. That is its formal name, but it is better known among educators in Iowa as the Harkin grants for Iowa public schools. Since 1998, I have been fortunate to secure a total of $121 million for the State government in Iowa, which selects worthy school districts to receive these grants for a range of renovation and repair efforts-- everything from updating fire safety systems to building new schools or renovating existing facilities. In many cases, this Federal funding is used to leverage public and/or private local funding, so it often has a tremendous multiplier effect in a local school district.

The MOC-Floyd Valley Community School District received two Harkin fire safety grants totaling $140,380 which it used to install new wiring, emergency lighting and doors at Hosper Elementary School and at the high school and to install fire detection systems and fire doors as well as perform electrical work at four other schools. The Federal grants have made it possible for the district to provide quality and safe schools for their students.

Excellent schools do not just pop up like mushrooms after a rain. They are the product of vision, leadership, persistence, and a tremendous amount of collaboration among local officials and concerned citizens. I salute the entire staff, administration, and governance in the MOC-Floyd Valley Community School District. In particular, I would like to recognize the leadership of the board of education--Gerald VanRoekel, Patty Thayer, Deb DeHaan, Shane Jager, Dan Duistermars and former board members Ed Grotenhuis and Harry VanderPol. Superintendent Gary Richardson and former superintendent Les Douma and buildings and grounds director Jim VanOmmeren should also be commended for their work on the grant application and implementation.

As we mark the 10th anniversary of the Harkin school grant program in Iowa, I am obliged to point out that many thousands of school buildings and facilities across the United States are in dire need of renovation or replacement. In my State of Iowa alone, according to a recent study, some 79 percent of public schools need to be upgraded or repaired. The harsh reality is that the average age of school buildings in the United States is nearly 50 years.

Too often, our children visit ultramodern shopping malls and gleaming sports arenas on weekends, but during the week go to school in rundown or antiquated facilities. This sends exactly the wrong message to our young people about our priorities. We have to do better.

That is why I am deeply grateful to the professionals and parents in the MOC-Floyd Valley Community School District. There is no question that a quality public education for every child is a top priority in that community. I salute them, and wish them a very successful new school year.

Madam President, in Iowa and across the United States, a new school year has begun. As you know, Iowa public schools have an excellent reputation nationwide, and Iowa students' test scores are among the highest in the Nation.

I would like to take just a few minutes today to salute the dedicated teachers, administrators, and school board members in the Mount Ayr Community School District and to report on their participation in a unique Federal partnership to repair and modernize school facilities.

This fall marks the 10th year of the Iowa Demonstration Construction Grant Program. That is its formal name, but it is better known among educators in Iowa as the Harkin grants for Iowa public schools. Since 1998, I have been fortunate to secure a total of $121 million for the State government in Iowa, which selects worthy school districts to receive these grants for a range of renovation and repair efforts-- everything from updating fire safety systems to building new schools or renovating existing facilities. In many cases, this Federal funding is used to leverage public and/or private local funding, so it often has a tremendous multiplier effect in a local school district.

The Mount Ayr Community School District received several Harkin fire safety grants totaling $124,500 which it used to repair fire safety problems. The grants were used to install new heat and smoke sensors, self-closing fire doors, evacuation lighting, and improved emergency exits and to rewire the fire panel. The Federal grants have made it possible for the district to provide quality and safe schools for their students.

Excellent schools do not just pop up like mushrooms after a rain. They are the product of vision, leadership, persistence, and a tremendous amount of collaboration among local officials and concerned citizens. I salute superintendent Russ Reiter, the entire staff, administration, and governance in the Mount Ayr Community School District. In particular I would like to recognize the leadership of the board of education--president Rod Shields, former president and board member Craig Elliott, Beth Whitson, Dave Richards, James Uhlenkamp, and board secretary Jeanette Campbell. I would also like to recognize former superintendent Bill Decker who was instrumental along with the district staff in applying for and implementing the first grants. Also, the work of the following people should be cited: head custodian Clint Poore, secondary head custodian Mike Gilliland, and local contractor Ed Rotert.

As we mark the 10th anniversary of the Harkin school grant program in Iowa, I am obliged to point out that many thousands of school buildings and facilities across the United States are in dire need of renovation or replacement. In my State of Iowa alone, according to a recent study, some 79 percent of public schools need to be upgraded or repaired. The harsh reality is that the average age of school buildings in the United States is nearly 50 years.

Too often, our children visit ultramodern shopping malls and gleaming sports arenas on weekends but during the week go to school in rundown or antiquated facilities. This sends exactly the wrong message to our young people about our priorities. We have to do better.

That is why I am deeply grateful to the professionals and parents in the Mount Ayr Community School District. There is no question that a quality public education for every child is a top priority in that community. I salute them and wish them a very successful new school year.

Madam President, in Iowa and across the United States, a new school year has begun. As you know, Iowa public schools have an excellent reputation nationwide, and Iowa students' test scores are among the highest in the Nation.

I would like to take just a few minutes today to salute the dedicated teachers, administrators, and school board members in the North Iowa Community School District and to report on their participation in a unique Federal partnership to repair and modernize school facilities.

This fall marks the 10th year of the Iowa Demonstration Construction Grant Program. That is its formal name, but it is better known among educators in Iowa as the program of Harkin grants for Iowa public schools. Since 1998, I have been fortunate to secure a total of $121 million for the State government in Iowa, which selects worthy school districts to receive these grants for a range of renovation and repair efforts--everything from updating fire-safety systems to building new schools or renovating existing facilities. In many cases, this Federal funding is used to leverage public and/or private local funding, so it often has a tremendous multiplier effect in a local school district.

The North Iowa Community School District received several Harkin grants totaling $812,000 which it used to help modernize the school building and to make safety improvements. The district received a 2001 Harkin grant for $225,000 to help with classrooms for preschool and before and after school programs. The district received a 2002 grant for $437,500 to help make renovations in the auditorium and to improve accessibility at the elementary school and at the high school. This school is a modern, state-of-the-art facility that befits the educational ambitions and excellence of this school district. Indeed, it is the kind of school facility that every child in America deserves. The district also received $150,000 in fire safety grants to make safety improvements at schools throughout the district.

Excellent schools do not just pop up like mushrooms after a rain. They are the product of vision, leadership, persistence, and a tremendous amount of collaboration among local officials and concerned citizens. I salute the entire staff, administration, and governance in the North Iowa Community School District. In particular, I would like to recognize the leadership of the board of education--Rande Giesking, Diedre Willmert, Renae Sachs, Matt Duve, Julie Balvance, Andrea Bakker, and Michael Holstad, and former board members Kim Ruby, Irven Olsen, Deb Wirth, Brandi Trent, David Brue, Dale Coy, Mark Ostermann, Tom Rygh, Jeff Heitland, Bruce Heetlans, and Christian Miller. I would also like to recognize superintendent Larry D. Hill, board secretary Cheryl Benn, Charlie Smith, K. Lynn Evans, Dr. John Laflen, and Brian Blodgett.

As we mark the 10th anniversary of the Harkin school grant program in Iowa, I am obliged to point out that many thousands of school buildings and facilities across the United States are in dire need of renovation or replacement. In my State of Iowa alone, according to a recent study, some 79 percent of public schools need to be upgraded or repaired. The harsh reality is that the average age of school buildings in the United States is nearly 50 years.

Too often, our children visit ultramodern shopping malls and gleaming sports arenas on weekends, but during the week go to school in rundown or antiquated facilities. This sends exactly the wrong message to our young people about our priorities. We have to do better.

That is why I am deeply grateful to the professionals and parents in the North Iowa Community School District. There is no question that a quality public education for every child is a top priority in that community. I salute them, and wish them a very successful new school year.

Madam President, in Iowa and across the United States, a new school year has begun. As you know, Iowa public schools have an excellent reputation nationwide, and Iowa students' test scores are among the highest in the Nation.

I would like to take just a few minutes, today to salute the dedicated teachers, administrators, and school board members in the Sioux City Community School District and to report on their participation in a unique Federal partnership to repair and modernize school facilities.

This fall marks the 10th year of the Iowa Demonstration Construction

Grant Program. That is its formal name, but it is better known among educators in Iowa as the program of Harkin grants for Iowa public schools. Since 1998, I have been fortunate to secure a total of $121 million for the State government in Iowa, which selects worthy school districts to receive these grants for a range of renovation and repair efforts--everything from updating fire-safety systems to building new schools or renovating existing facilities. In many cases, this Federal funding is used to leverage public and/or private local funding, so it often has a tremendous multiplier effect in a local school district.

The Sioux City Community School District received six Harkin grants totaling $2,225,000 which it used to help modernize and make safety improvements throughout the district. The district received a 2000 grant for $500,000 to help with a science classroom addition to East Middle School and a 2002 grant for $1 million to install a new HVAC system which improved efficiency and indoor air quality at North High School. The district received four fire-safety grants totaling $725,000 for fire alarms, emergency lighting, and other repairs in several schools throughout the district. The Federal grants have made it possible for the district to provide quality and safe schools for their students.

Excellent schools do not just pop up like mushrooms after a rain. They are the product of vision, leadership, persistence, and a tremendous amount of collaboration among local officials and concerned citizens. I salute the entire staff, administration, and governance in the Sioux City Community School District. In particular, I would like to recognize the leadership of the board of education--president Doug Batcheller, vice president John Meyers, James Daane, Greg Grupp, Walt Johnson, Nancy Mounts and Jackie Warnstadt and former board members Anne James, Flora Lee, John Mayne, Judy Peterson, Bob Scott, Valorie Kruse, Ron Jorgensen, and Barbara Benson. I would like to recognize superintendent Dr. Paul Gausman, former superintendent Larry D. Williams, director of operation and maintenance Mel McKern and supervisor for environmental systems Ralph Guenther.

As we mark the 10th anniversary of the Harkin school grant program in Iowa, I am obliged to point out that many thousands of school buildings and facilities across the United States are in dire need of renovation or replacement. In my State of Iowa alone, according to a recent study, some 79 percent of public schools need to be upgraded or repaired. The harsh reality is that the average age of school buildings in the United States is nearly 50 years.

Too often, our children visit ultramodern shopping malls and gleaming sports arenas on weekends but during the week go to school in rundown or antiquated facilities. This sends exactly the wrong message to our young people about our priorities. We have to do better.

That is why I am deeply grateful to the professionals and parents in the Sioux City Community School District. There is no question that a quality public education for every child is a top priority in that community. I salute them and wish them a very successful new school year.

Madam President, in Iowa and across the United States, a new school year has begun. As you know, Iowa public schools have an excellent reputation nationwide, and Iowa students' test scores are among the highest in the Nation.

I would like to take just a few minutes today to salute the dedicated teachers, administrators, and school board members in the Titonka Consolidated Community School District, and to report on their participation in a unique federal partnership to repair and modernize school facilities.

This fall marks the 10th year of the Iowa Demonstration Construction Grant Program. That is its formal name, but it is better known among educators in Iowa as the program of Harkin grants for Iowa public schools. Since 1998, I have been fortunate to secure a total of $121 million for the State government in Iowa, which selects worthy school districts to receive these grants for a range of renovation and repair efforts, everything from updating fire safety systems to building new schools or renovating existing facilities. In many cases, this Federal funding is used to leverage public and/or private local funding, so it often has a tremendous multiplier effect in a local school district.

The Titonka Consolidated Community School District received a 2005 Harkin grant totaling $500,000 which it used to help build a new middle school and an addition at the elementary school. These schools are modern, state-of-the-art facilities that befit the educational ambitions and excellence of this school district. Indeed, they are the kind of schools that every child in America deserves. The district also received a fire safety grant totaling $25,000 which it used to update sprinkler systems in the district.

Excellent schools do not just pop up like mushrooms after a rain. They are the product of vision, leadership, persistence, and a tremendous amount of collaboration among local officials and concerned citizens. I salute the entire staff, administration, and governance in the Titonka Consolidated Community School District. In particular, I'd like to recognize the leadership of the board of education--Laura Phelps, Allison Anderson, Gloria Bartelt, Leroy Hoffman and Daryl Chapin as well as former board member Lori Miller. I would also like to recognize superintendent Ron Sadler, Allen Boyken of Titonka Savings Bank, Jeff Carlton of Boyken Insurance, and the staff of Holland Contracting and Allers Associates Architects. Two members of the local community who were also instrumental in the project were Rhonda Sexton and Kathy Studer.

As we mark the 10th anniversary of the Harkin school grant program in Iowa, I am obliged to point out that many thousands of school buildings and facilities across the United States are in dire need of renovation or replacement. In my State of Iowa alone, according to a recent study, some 79 percent of public schools need to be upgraded or repaired. The harsh reality is that the average age of school buildings in the United States is nearly 50 years.

Too often, our children visit ultramodern shopping malls and gleaming sports arenas on weekends, but during the week go to school in rundown or antiquated facilities. This sends exactly the wrong message to our young people about our priorities. We have to do better.

That is why I am deeply grateful to the professionals and parents in the Titonka Consolidated Community School District. There is no question that a quality public education for every child is a top priority in that community. I salute them, and wish them a very successful new school year.

Mr. President, in Iowa and across the United States, a new school year has begun. As you know, Iowa public schools have an excellent reputation nationwide, and Iowa students' test scores are among the highest in the nation.

I would like to take just a few minutes today to salute the dedicated teachers, administrators, and school board members in the Van Buren Community School District, and to report on their participation in a unique Federal partnership to repair and modernize school facilities.

This fall marks the 10th year of the Iowa Demonstration Construction Grant Program. That is its formal name, but it is better known among educators in Iowa as the program of Harkin grants for Iowa public schools. Since 1998, I have been fortunate to secure a total of $121 million for the State government in Iowa, which selects worthy school districts to receive these grants for a range of renovation and repair efforts everything from updating fire safety systems to building new schools or renovating existing facilities. In many cases, this Federal funding is used to leverage public and/or private local funding, so it often has a tremendous multiplier effect in a local school district.

The Van Buren Community School District received a 2002 Harkin grant totaling $837,000. These funds were used to build a school library which is also available to the community, a lunchroom, an art and music room and a meeting space at the Douds Elementary School. With a financial commitment from the community through the passage of a local option sales tax and a contribution from the Van Buren Foundation, the Douds Elementary School created a safe and supportive learning environment.

In 2003, a second Harkin grant for $500,000 was awarded to the Van Buren School District. Matching funds came from a generous donation from the William M. and Donna J. Hoaglin Foundation. The funds were used for the remodeling of the art and music room at Stockport Elementary School, and to add another pre-school classroom at the Birmingham Early Childhood Center. These schools are the modern, state- of-the-art facilities that befit the educational ambitions and excellence of this school district. Indeed, they are the kind of schools that every child in America deserves.

Excellent schools do not just pop up like mushrooms after a rain. They are the product of vision, leadership, persistence, and a tremendous amount of collaboration among local officials and concerned citizens. I salute the entire staff, administration, and governance in the Van Buren Community School District. In particular, I would like to recognize the leadership of the board of education--Tony Huffman, Terry Jester, Dick Hornberg, Sheila Parsons, Stan Whitten, Karen McEntee and Brian Starnes and former board members Jon Finney, Dixie Daugherty, Jean McIntosh, Monte Humble, Bill Shewmaker and Dr. Tim Blair. I would also like to recognize superintendent Karen Stinson, former superintendent Richard Barton and principal Charles Russell.

The projects would not have been possible without the financial support of two local foundations and I would like to recognize the board of directors of the Hoaglin Foundation; and the Van Buren Foundation board of directors, whose members include Art Ovrom, Dean Folker, Jon Finney, B.R. Poole, Steve Kisling, Rex Strait, Sandy McLain, Davis Pollock, Rich Lytle, Jim Dorothy, Butch Gates, Matt Manning, Jeanne Erickson, John O. Manning, Don VonSeggen, Pat Miller, George Manning, Mary J. Smith, Allen Gunn and Crystal Cronk.

As we mark the 10th anniversary of the Harkin school grant program in Iowa, I am obliged to point out that many thousands of school buildings and facilities across the United States are in dire need of renovation or replacement. In my State of Iowa alone, according to a recent study, some 79 percent of public schools need to be upgraded or repaired. The harsh reality is that the average age of school buildings in the United States is nearly 50 years.

Too often, our children visit ultramodern shopping malls and gleaming sports arenas on weekends, but during the week go to school in rundown or antiquated facilities. This sends exactly the wrong message to our young people about our priorities. We have to do better.

That is why I am deeply grateful to the professionals and parents in the Van Buren Community School District. There is no question that a quality public education for every child is a top priority in that community. I salute them, and wish them a very successful new school year.

Mr. President, in Iowa and across the United States, a new school year has begun. As you know, Iowa public schools have an excellent reputation nationwide, and Iowa students' test scores are among the highest in the Nation.

I would like to take just a few minutes today to salute the dedicated teachers, administrators, and school board members in the West Delaware County Community School District, and to report on their participation in a unique Federal partnership to repair and modernize school facilities.

This fall marks the 10th year of the Iowa Demonstration Construction Grant Program. That is its formal name, but it is better known among educators in Iowa as the program of Harkin grants for Iowa public schools. Since 1998, I have been fortunate to secure a total of $121 million for the State government in Iowa, which selects worthy school districts to receive these grants for a range of renovation and repair efforts everything from updating fire safety systems to building new schools or renovating existing facilities. In many cases, this Federal funding is used to leverage public and/or private local funding, so it often has a tremendous multiplier effect in a local school district.

The West Delaware County Community School District received several Harkin fire safety grants totaling $270,199 which it used to upgrade the fire alarm system and improve emergency lighting and other items at the high school and middle school as well as add fire rated doors and smoke and heat detectors at Lambert Elementary School. The Federal grants have made it possible for the district to provide quality and safe schools for their students.

Excellent schools do not just pop up like mushrooms after a rain. They are the product of vision, leadership, persistence, and a tremendous amount of collaboration among local officials and concerned citizens. I salute the superintendent Bob Cue and the entire staff, administration, and governance in the West Delaware County Community School District. In particular, I would like to recognize the leadership of the board of education--president Elwyn Curtis, Mike Ryan, Steve Dudak, Cheryl Stufflebeam and Linda Bessey, as well as past members former president Dan Zumbach, Mike Carr, Ilona Durey, Gary Johnson, Jack Young, and Edith Fortmann-Comley.

Other dedicated district staff who were instrumental in the success of the grant implementation whom I would also like to recognize are the late superintendent Rick Hilbert, business manager Ron Goerdt, building and grounds director Ron Swartz, and technology coordinator Ron Struble.

As we mark the 10th anniversary of the Harkin school grant program in Iowa, I am obliged to point out that many thousands of school buildings and facilities across the United States are in dire need of renovation or replacement. In my State of Iowa alone, according to a recent study, some 79 percent of public schools need to be upgraded or repaired. The harsh reality is that the average age of school buildings in the United States is nearly 50 years.

Too often, our children visit ultramodern shopping malls and gleaming sports arenas on weekends, but during the week go to school in rundown or antiquated facilities. This sends exactly the wrong message to our young

people about our priorities. We have to do better.

That is why I am deeply grateful to the professionals and parents in the West Delaware County Community School District. There is no question that a quality public education for every child is a top priority in that community. I salute them, and wish them a very successful new school year.

Mr. President, in Iowa and across the United States, a new school year has begun. As you know, Iowa public schools have an excellent reputation nationwide, and Iowa students' test scores are among the highest in the Nation.

I would like to take just a few minutes today to salute the dedicated teachers, administrators, and school board members in the Woodbine Community School District, and to report on their participation in a unique Federal partnership to repair and modernize school facilities.

This fall marks the 10th year of the Iowa Demonstration Construction Grant Program. That is its formal name, but it is better known among educators in Iowa as the program of Harkin grants for Iowa public schools. Since 1998, I have been fortunate to secure a total of $121 million for the State government in Iowa, which selects worthy school districts to receive these grants for a range of renovation and repair efforts--everything from updating fire safety systems to building new schools or renovating existing facilities. In many cases, this Federal funding is used to leverage public and/or private local funding, so it often has a tremendous multiplier effect in a local school district.

The Woodbine Community School District received several Harkin grants totaling $1,138,670 which it used to help build a new school, renovate existing classrooms, and make fire safety repairs throughout the district. This school is a modern, state-of-the-art facility that befits the educational ambitions and excellence of this school district. Indeed, it is the kind of school facility that every child in America deserves. To accomplish this comprehensive plan to modernize schools throughout the district, the citizens in the school district passed a bond issue for $5.1 million.

Excellent schools do not just pop up like mushrooms after a rain. They are the product of vision, leadership, persistence, and a tremendous amount of collaboration among local officials and concerned citizens. I salute the entire staff, administration, and governance in the Woodbine Community School District. In particular, I would like to recognize the leadership of the board of education--Amy Sherer, Mike Staben, Joanna Shaw, Todd Heistand, and Amber Nelson and former board members Joe Ball, Ryan Sullivan, Randall Pryor, Cheryl Book, Alan Ronk, Lynnette Lee, and Alan Ahrenholtz. I would also like to recognize superintendent Tom Vint, former superintendent Dr. Terry Hazard, former high school principal Deb Johnsen, Jim Berg with BVH Architects and the members of the steering committee responsible for passage of the bond referendum.

As we mark the 10th anniversary of the Harkin school grant program in Iowa, I am obliged to point out that many thousands of school buildings and facilities across the United States are in dire need of renovation or replacement. In my State of Iowa alone, according to a recent study, some 79 percent of public schools need to be upgraded or repaired. The harsh reality is that the average age of school buildings in the United States is nearly 50 years.

Too often, our children visit ultramodern shopping malls and gleaming sports arenas on weekends, but during the week go to school in rundown or antiquated facilities. This sends exactly the wrong message to our young people about our priorities. We have to do better.

That is why I am deeply grateful to the professionals and parents in the Woodbine Community School District. There is no question that a quality public education for every child is a top priority in that community. I salute them, and wish them a very successful new school year.

Mr. President, as our colleagues know, my State of Iowa and other States across the Midwest were hit by devastating tornadoes, floods, and heavy rains this past spring. These were natural disasters of historic proportions, and they left tremendous damage and destruction in their wake.

Three and a half months later, Iowans are making progress toward recovery. But the harsh reality is that many flood victims are still living in trailers or with relatives. Many businesses can't get the low-interest Small Business Administration loans they need to rebuild and recover. Cities are waiting for funding to restore damaged infrastructure. We still face billions of dollars in unmet needs across Iowa.

Within weeks of the flooding, Congress acted promptly to provide assistance, passing a $2.65 billion disaster assistance bill. This was intended to be only an initial injection of Federal aid--a downpayment on the long recovery ahead.

I am very pleased that, in this continuing resolution before us today, we have the second installment on disaster assistance. The bill includes $23 billion in disaster aid, with a significant share of those dollars destined for Iowa and other Midwestern states hit by floods and tornadoes.

As a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I have been working with other members of the committee, and with the House Appropriations Committee; with other Senators from the disaster- impacted States; as well as the Iowa House delegation for months to secure these urgently needed funds. I am both gratified and grateful that my colleagues on the Appropriation Committees recognized the disaster recovery needs in my State of Iowa as a national priority.

The $23 billion provided in this bill is allocated in several areas. The largest segment is $8 billion to replenish FEMA's available funding, which is crucial. However, the amount that local governments and individuals receive from FEMA is set by existing law.

One of the most important functions is mitigation funding equal to 20 percent of most of what FEMA spends in a State. Those funds are used to reduce the chance of damage from future disasters. I am proud that, in 1993, I was the chief sponsor of legislation that sharply expanded this program, similar to what it is today. We need not only to recover from past disasters, but work to limit damage in the future.

The most significant component of relief funding in this bill is $6.5 billion for community development block grants. State and local governments have considerable flexibility and leeway in how they use these grants. They can be used for home repairs and buyouts, assistance to businesses, repair of damaged public facilities, and additional mitigation efforts to reduce damage from future disasters.

The amount of CDBG funding varies from time to time, as do the specific rules. The language in this continuing resolution provides more flexibility than has often been provided in the past.

Since passage of the initial flood relief in late June, the Department of Housing and Urban Development has been very slow to actually get CDBG funding out the door and to the people who need it. There has been endless redtape and chronic delays. And this is unacceptable at a time when so many people are hurting and so many businesses are struggling to put people back to work.

To prevent a repeat of this poor performance, a provision was included, which I proposed, requiring that HUD allocate at least one- third of the CDBG money in this bill within 60 days of it being signed. This will give us confidence that, by about December 1, a significant portion of this CDBG money will be in the hands of individuals and businesses that urgently need it. Needless to say, this ``one third'' requirement is a minimum. I hope that HUD will do better than that and will release this new CDBG funding as expeditiously as possible.

This new disaster-relief package includes several other major components.

It includes $7.9 billion for FEMA disaster relief, which helps pay individuals affected by disasters nationally.

It includes $600 million for the social services block grant program to provide urgently needed services to people in areas hit by disasters. This funding can be used to purchase food, shelter, and clothing, as well as health care and mental health services. States may also use these funds for vital public health activities, such as surveillance of water-borne or mosquito-borne diseases. Funds may also be used to repair damaged health care and social services facilities, such as child care centers.

In addition, the package includes $182 million for construction of the new Cedar Rapids Courthouse. As many of my colleagues know, the city of Cedar Rapids was devastated by the flooding in June. The Cedar River crested at nearly 32 feet, inundating nearly 400 city blocks-- more than 9 square miles. The construction of this new Federal courthouse will be an important symbol of the rebirth and rebuilding of this proud city.

The package also includes important disaster relief for rural areas. It includes: $59 million for the U.S. Department of Agriculture to help rebuild and repair single and multifamily homes in rural areas; $40 million for USDA to rebuild and repair rural community facilities, including nonprofit facilities, everything from hospitals to day care centers, in towns with populations under 20,000; $26 million for rural utilities including water and wastewater, rural electric cooperatives, electric and telephone repair, and reconstruction; $100 million for the USDA Emergency Watershed Program for recovery from floods, storms, and other natural disasters; $115 million for the USDA Emergency Conservation Program; $850 million is made available for the repair of State highways damaged by the storms across the country; and $20 million is made available for the repair of rail line and bridges of small railroads that have suffered very considerable damage. These funds are crucial to several small railroads that are very important to many local shippers and receivers of rail goods. This funding is not available to the large railroads.

In addition to the relief provisions in the continuing resolution, I want to mention the good work of my senior colleague, Senator Grassley, who played a lead role in moving a number of important tax provisions in the separate tax extender bill that passed the Senate earlier this week--tax provisions that will be of significant benefit to those recovering from disasters. I was pleased to be the lead Democratic sponsor of his disaster tax bill in this area that includes important assistance for homeowners, for the building of new housing, and assistance to rebuild and revitalize business.

The funding in the continuing resolution will bring a second infusion of urgently needed resources to people in Iowa and across the Midwest.

No question, people in my State have suffered terrible damage, and the road back is going to be long and difficult. But as I have witnessed in recent months, Iowans are a tough, resilient people. And they are also a generous people, pitching in to help neighbors and strangers alike.

As I learned in the Navy, there are two responses to a disaster. It's either ``every man for himself, abandon ship,'' or it's ``all hands on deck, save the ship.'' Well, Iowans are an ``all hands on deck'' kind of people. We will endure--and we will prevail.

Finally, let me say that the disaster funding in this bill is another important, positive step on the path to full recovery. But additional assistance will be needed.

The reality is that the funding levels for the disaster package were set with only minimal information on the level of damage suffered by Hurricanes Gustav and Ike. When that data is set, I believe it will be clear that additional assistance will be necessary for those accounts that are allocated by the level of damage in each State or region compared to all of the disaster areas.

Hopefully, early next year, by which time we should have a nearly complete assessment of damages and needs, I will work with my colleagues on the Appropriations Committee to include a third installment of disaster relief on the omnibus appropriations bill for fiscal year 2009.

I am grateful to my colleagues for providing this generous assistance to people and businesses in Iowa and across the Midwest. And I urge their support for this continuing resolution.

Mr. President, in Iowa and across the United States, a new school year has begun. As you know, Iowa public schools have an excellent reputation nationwide, and Iowa students' test scores are among the highest in the Nation.

I would like to take just a few minutes today to salute the dedicated teachers, administrators, and school board members in the Boyer Valley Community School District, and to report on their participation in a unique Federal partnership to repair and modernize school facilities.

This fall marks the 10th year of the Iowa Demonstration Construction Grant Program. That is its formal name, but it is better known among educators in Iowa as the program of Harkin grants for Iowa public schools. Since 1998, I have been fortunate to secure a total of $121 million for the State government in Iowa, which selects worthy school districts to receive these grants for a range of renovation and repair efforts everything from updating fire safety systems to building new schools or renovating existing facilities. In many cases, this Federal funding is used to leverage public and/or private local funding, so it often has a tremendous multiplier effect in a local school district.

The Boyer Valley Community School District received a 2002 Harkin grant totaling $1 million which it used to help build an addition to the school in Dow City to provide a multipurpose room that could be used by the community as well as the school. The district collaborated with the City of Dunlap to build an addition to the middle/high school to house the community/school library. This school is a modern, state- of-the-art facility that befits the educational ambitions and excellence of this school district. Indeed, it is the kind of school facility that every child in America deserves. The district also received a $25,000 fire safety grant.

Excellent schools do not just pop up like mushrooms after a rain. They are the product of vision, leadership, persistence, and a tremendous amount of collaboration among local officials and concerned citizens. I salute the entire staff, administration, and governance in the Boyer Valley Community School District. In particular, I would like to recognize the leadership of the board of education--Ken Dunham, Pat Putnam, Julie Wood, Steve Puck, Paul Klein, Mark McAllister, and Randy Mitchell, and former board members Roger Waderich, Theresa McAllister, Ruth Sherwood, Sam Cogdill, Sam Head, and Jane Davie as well as superintendent Thomas Vint and former superintendent Debra Johnsen. I would also like to recognize the city of Dow City and mayor Ace Ettleman, the city of Dunlap and treasurer Dwaine Hack and the late mayor Giles Lacey and the committee that worked to pass the bond referendum for the new schools.

As we mark the 10th anniversary of the Harkin school grant program in Iowa, I am obliged to point out that many thousands of school buildings and facilities across the United States are in dire need of renovation or replacement. In my State of Iowa alone, according to a recent study, some 79 percent of public schools need to be upgraded or repaired. The harsh reality is that the average age of school buildings in the United States is nearly 50 years.

Too often, our children visit ultramodern shopping malls and gleaming sports arenas on weekends, but during the week go to school in rundown or antiquated facilities. This sends exactly the wrong message to our young people about our priorities. We have to do better.

That is why I am deeply grateful to the professionals and parents in the Boyer Valley Community School District. There is no question that a quality public education for every child is a top priority in that community. I salute them, and wish them a very successful new school year.

Mr. President, in Iowa and across the United States, a new school year has begun. As you know, Iowa public schools have an excellent reputation nationwide, and Iowa students' test scores are among the highest in the Nation.

I would like to take just a few minutes today to salute the dedicated teachers, administrators, and school board members in the Columbus Community School District, and to report on their participation in a unique Federal partnership to repair and modernize school facilities.

This fall marks the 10th year of the Iowa Demonstration Construction Grant Program. That is its formal name, but it is better known among educators in Iowa as the program of Harkin grants for Iowa public schools. Since 1998, I have been fortunate to secure a total of $121 million for the State government in Iowa, which selects worthy school districts to receive these grants for a range of renovation and repair efforts--everything from updating fire safety systems to building new schools or renovating existing facilities. In many cases, this Federal funding is used to leverage public and/or private local funding, so it often has a tremendous multiplier effect in a local school district.

The Columbus Community School District received a 2004 Harkin grant totaling $500,000 which it used to help replace the heating and cooling system with a geothermal system at the high school. Additionally, in 1998 and 1999, fire safety grants totaling $50,000 were used to update the electrical wiring and the installation of new alarm systems and fire doors at the middle and high schools. The Federal grants have made it possible for the district to provide quality and safe schools for their students.

Excellent schools do not just pop up like mushrooms after a rain. They are the product of vision, leadership, persistence, and a tremendous amount of collaboration among local officials and concerned citizens. I salute the entire staff, administration, and governance in the Columbus Community School District. In particular, I would like to recognize the leadership of the board of education, Mike Braun, Marsha Gerot, Ed Smith, Dan Peters, and Georgia Kost. I would also like to recognize superintendent Richard Bridenstine and staff members including Tanya Purdy, Todd Heck and Mike Jay, and the community leadership of Mark Huston and Wade Edwards.

As we mark the 10th anniversary of the Harkin School Grant program in Iowa, I am obliged to point out that many thousands of school buildings and facilities across the United States are in dire need of renovation or replacement. In my State of Iowa alone, according to a recent study, some 79 percent of public schools need to be upgraded or repaired. The harsh reality is that the average age of school buildings in the United States is nearly 50 years.

Too often, our children visit ultramodern shopping malls and gleaming sports arenas on weekends, but during the week go to school in rundown or antiquated facilities. This sends exactly the wrong message to our young

people about our priorities. We have to do better.

That is why I am deeply grateful to the professionals and parents in the Columbus Community School District. There is no question that a quality public education for every child is a top priority in that community. I salute them, and wish them a very successful new school year.