On 2026-05-04, Representative Beth Van Duyne (R-TX-24) delivered a floor speech titled "WELCOMING TRAVIS TAG CLASS OF 2026" in the House. The speech addressed taxes and also covered education, crime and justice. It referenced legislation: S2026.
WELCOMING TRAVIS TAG CLASS OF 2026 Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 77 (Monday, May 4, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 77 (Monday, May 4, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E415-E416] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] WELCOMING TRAVIS TAG CLASS OF 2026 ______ HON. BETH VAN DUYNE of texas in the house of representatives Monday, May 4, 2026 Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and warmly welcome the 8th grade class of WiIIiam B. Travis Vanguard & Academy for the Talented and Gifted--known as Travis TAG--from Dallas, Texas, as they visit our Nation's Capital from May 1 through May 4, 2026. [[Page E416]] This outstanding group of 83 students, accompanied by their dedicated teachers and chaperones, represents the very best of Dallas ISD. Travis TAG, located in Uptown Dallas and represented by the Timberwolf mascot, has once again been named the number one public middle school in Texas by U.S. News & World Report's 2026 Best Schools rankings. The school earned an A+ rating from Children at Risk and a 10 out of 10 rating from GreatSchools--a testament to the excellence, commitment, and talent of its students, educators, and families. These students have demonstrated remarkable achievement both inside and outside the classroom. They excel in fine arts, athletics, debate, robotics, student government, and academic competitions across science, math, and beyond. Their presence here in Washington reflects not only their academic success, but also the strong support of their families and community, including partners like Uptown Dallas Inc. and Bread Winners Uptown, whose generosity helped make this trip possible. As part of their 8th grade U.S. History curriculum, these students have spent the past year studying the foundations of our Nation--from the colonial era through Reconstruction. Their visit brings those lessons to life. During their time here, they will tour the United States Capitol, visit the National Archives Building to see the founding documents, and explore institutions such as the National Museum of American History. They will walk the grounds of Mount Vernon to learn about George Washington, and visit Fort McHenry, a defining site of the War of 1812. They will also engage with the broader American story through visits to the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum and the National Museum of African American History and Culture, and honor those who have served our country with a wreath-laying at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery. This visit is especially meaningful as our Nation approaches its semiquincentennial. For many of these students, who have spent years learning and growing together, this trip marks both the culmination of their middle school experience and the beginning of their journey as engaged citizens. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in welcoming the Travis TAG Class of 2026 to Washington, D.C. May their time here deepen their understanding of our Nation's history, inspire a lifelong commitment to civic engagement, and remind them that the future of this country rests in capable hands such as theirs. It is an honor to have them here.