Grassley Recognizes Becky Koenig for her Lasting Impact on Iowa Students

Floor Remarks by Senator Chuck Grassley of Iowa Senate President Pro Tempore “Recognizing Becky Koenig’s Remarkable Teaching Career” Tuesday, July 22, 2025 VIDEO I would like to recognize an Iowa teacher who, this very week, is making the last trip of her almost 40-year teaching career bringing students to Washington, D.C. Becky Koenig has been an exceptional educator, coach and mentor, as well as being very beloved by her students. Becky has made a lasting impact on students and their families in the communities of Sumner, Forest City, Lake Park and Spencer, Iowa. Becky’s contribution to the lives of so many Iowans will be remembered and felt long after her well-deserved retirement. Outside of school hours, Becky has devoted 38 years to coaching speech. In fact, she’s played a very major role in a remarkable Iowa record. The large group speech program at Spencer has been able to send at least one group to the Iowa All-State Festival every single year of the competition's 50-year existence. Although Becky will leave the classroom behind, the deep connections she’s built with her students will leave a lasting legacy in each of their lives. Through her passion and energy, she has shaped the minds of many students. Iowa has been lucky to have an educator like Becky. Most of us remember at least one teacher that inspired us to get where we are today. Becky has been that teacher for countless Iowa students. I am pleased to join her fellow teachers, students and all Iowans to say thank you to Becky Koenig for her exceptional career. We wish you all the very best in retirement, and of course, we thank you for your service. -30-