Teacher Appreciation Each teacher participating in the Synopsys Outreach Foundation's Science Project Grant Program received recognition for their efforts in a personalized letter from the following elected officials. Excerpts follow. From a letter sent by the Hon. Dianne Feinstein United States Senator   "Thank you for your commitment to your students and for your participation in the Science Project Grant Program offered through the Synopsys Outreach Foundation. As a supervisor or mentor, you did much more than give time, which is in itself precious. You shared your knowledge and experience. Most of all, you served as a role model, helping your students to understand hypotheses, sharpen research skills and develop discipline. Choosing project-based learning as one way to advance student interest in science is commendable. The opportunity for your students to learn by doing and to experience the wonders of science through a project of their own can prove invaluable. Thank you for making this opportunity available to your students, and providing the guidance central to insuring a rewarding experience. Congratulations and my best wishes for continued success throughout this year." From a letter sent by the Hon. Barbara Boxer United States Senator   "I commend you for your determination to broaden your students' scientific interests and applaud them for all the hard work put into their projects. Through your work, you provide an invaluable tool in our fight for better education. Your commitment and dedication have made, and will continue to make, a tremendous difference in the lives of many students." From a letter sent by the Hon. Ron Gonzales Former Mayor, City of San Jose   "I am writing to commend you for your participation in the Synopsys Outreach Foundation's grant program for teachers. Your role in working with your students to develop science projects is critical to the overall success of the program, and to the ultimate objective of stimulating interest in scientific careers. We enjoy daily reminders, especially here in Silicon Valley, of the importance of science in our personal lives, and in the economic growth of our region, state and nation. Learning about science through project-based activity is one of the best ways to foster student interest, and to provide a real grasp of how science works."