HONORING DR. MARIAH WALKER

On 2026-05-19, Representative Deborah K. Ross (D-NC-2) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING DR. MARIAH WALKER" in the House.

HONORING DR. MARIAH WALKER

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 85 (Tuesday, May 19, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 85 (Tuesday, May 19, 2026)] [House] [Pages H3556-H3557] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] {time} 1410 HONORING DR. MARIAH WALKER (Ms. ROSS asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend her remarks.) Ms. ROSS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor North Carolina's new Principal of the Year, Wake County's own Dr. Mariah Walker. As the principal of the Wake Young Women's Leadership Academy, Dr. Walker has dedicated her career to ensuring her students are supported and empowered. She has strengthened academic excellence, expanded postsecondary opportunities, and consistently uplifted her students' achievements. What makes Dr. Walker exceptional is that she believes every student deserves someone who ridiculously believes in their potential. That belief can truly change lives. [[Page H3557]] On the heels of Teacher Appreciation Week, the North Carolina General Assembly is finally considering increasing teacher salaries. Our State ranks 46th in the Nation for teacher pay. That is simply unacceptable. Mr. Speaker, educators, like Dr. Walker, give their all to the next generation. They deserve fair pay. ____________________