NORFOLK, Neb. -- A northeast Nebraska educator was recognized on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives on Wednesday.

Rep. Mike Flood delivered remarks honoring Norfolk Catholic's Jane Jessen, a longtime educator who is retiring. Flood’s speech comes as educators across the nation are being celebrated during Teacher Appreciation Week.

"Every single day in the classroom, she has worked hard to inspire each student to find their own path and to celebrate what makes them a very important person," Flood said. "Jane has lived her life to help others. She has touched the lives of so many not only in the classroom. She has also touched the lives of those who have witnessed her resilience by living her faith during times of tragedy and sorrow."

Jessen was Flood's fifth-grade teacher at Norfolk Catholic.

Mike Flood is the founder and an owner of Flood Communications and News Channel Nebraska.