Congressman Lamar Smith 21st district of Texas

Contact: Brian Baluta 202-225-4236

Washington, Jul 30, 2008 - Congressman Lamar Smith today met with New Braunfels High School teacher Cari Gray, who was selected to represent the 21st Congressional District in the House Fellows Program. Gray, who teaches U.S. history, government and economics, was one of 24 teachers invited to Washington, D.C. this summer for an intensive workshop on the history and practice of the House of Representatives.

“I have long considered teaching to be one of the most honorable professions in America. Teachers have one of the greatest responsibilities -- educating our children,” said Smith. “I applaud Cari Gray for her dedication to teaching and for the honor of being selected as a House Fellow. New Braunfels and the 21st District should be proud.”

This year, the House Historian chose the 21st Congressional District as one of the participating districts and Grey was selected in a highly competitive process to represent the District.

The House Fellows Program, which is conducted by the Office of the Historian, brings teachers from across the country together to develop lesson plans about the House. Fellows observe the House in session and participate in briefings from the Office of the House Historian, the National Archives, the Smithsonian Institution, and the Library of Congress.