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HR 2053

Commending Ellen Colter.

2026, 1st Special Session Introduced by Kathy Tran

The bill commends Ellen Colter for a 40-year career in education and her leadership as an elementary school administrator.

Bill text as passed House (HR2053ER)
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Bill Summary · HR 2053

Summary of HR 2053 (Session: 2026S1, Virginia)

Title

Commending Ellen Colter

Purpose and Intent

  • To recognize and commend Ellen Colter upon her retirement as assistant principal of Keene Mill Elementary School after a 40-year career in education.
  • The resolution serves to publicly acknowledge Colter’s contributions to students, staff, and the Fairfax County Public Schools system.

Key Provisions

  • Formal expression of commendation by the Virginia House of Delegates.
  • Notation of Colter’s career milestones, educational background, and roles:
    • Retirement as assistant principal of Keene Mill Elementary School.
    • 40-year career in education, including prior service at Clifton Elementary School (assistant principal from 2005–2011) and various teaching roles in Virginia Beach, New York City, and Germany.
    • Educational credentials: University of Virginia, Teachers College at Columbia University, and George Mason University.
    • Notable initiatives and responsibilities:
    • Development and leadership of the Kangas CARE initiative, recognizing student leaders promoting cooperation, acceptance, responsibility, and empathy.
    • Commitment to special education and ensuring the needs of all students are met.
    • Support for instructional practices and interventions, and collaboration with teachers to improve student learning.
    • Role as school testing coordinator, ensuring testing environments meet division and state expectations.
    • Creation of a safe, creative, and innovative learning environment aligned with Keene Mill Elementary School’s mission.
    • Personal attributes highlighted: humor, warmth, strong memory for names, and ability to build supportive relationships with students and staff.
  • Formal conclusion: The Clerk of the House is tasked with presenting a copy of the resolution to Ellen Colter as an expression of admiration and recognition.

Who/What Is Affected

  • Ellen Colter (the subject of the commendation).
  • Keene Mill Elementary School, Fairfax County Public Schools, and the broader Virginia educational community, which benefit from public acknowledgement of a longtime educator.
  • House of Delegates, which will officially recognize and honor Colter.

Procedural and Timeline Details

  • Prefiled and laid on the Speaker’s table on April 23, 2026.
  • Engrossed by the House on April 23, 2026.
  • Agreed to by the House by voice vote on April 23, 2026.
  • Sponsors:
    • Primary sponsor: (Not explicitly listed beyond “Patron — Tran”)
    • Co-sponsor: Kathy Tran

Additional Notes

  • This is a commemorative, ceremonial resolution, not legislation altering law or policy.
  • The resolution reflects the House’s appreciation for a dedicated educator and administrator with four decades of service.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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