81R30302 CBE-D By: Naishtat H.R. No. 2009 R E S O L U T I O N WHEREAS, The year 2009 marks the 25th anniversary of Northwest Montessori House of Children in Austin; and WHEREAS, Founded in 1984 by Shireen de Silva, Northwest Montessori House of Children "is dedicated to creating an enriching and challenging educational environment where each child is encouraged to reach his or her fullest potential academically, emotionally, and socially"; through the years, the school has served more than 1,000 students and expanded its campus to include three buildings; and WHEREAS, Mrs. de Silva, who has extensive Association Montessori Internationale training, leads a team of over 20 teachers, including Denise Pastor, the assistant director; moreover, Mrs. de Silva's husband, Kenneth de Silva, has been involved with the institution since its inception and currently serves as its financial and human resources director; Mrs. de Silva was honored in 2005 with a special award for her significant contributions as a small business owner; and WHEREAS, For a quarter of a century, Northwest Montessori House of Children has made a positive difference in the lives of Austin children and their parents, and it is indeed fitting to honor the school during this milestone year; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 81st Texas Legislature hereby commemorate the 25th anniversary of Northwest Montessori House of Children in Austin and extend to all those associated with the institution sincere best wishes for continued success; and, be it further RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be prepared for Northwest Montessori House of Children as an expression of high regard by the Texas House of Representatives.