- Record: Extensions of Remarks
- Section type: Recognition
- Chamber: House
- Date: September 3, 2026
- Congress: 119th Congress
- Why this source matters: Extensions of Remarks are statements submitted for the official record, even if they were not spoken live on the floor.
HON. BETH VAN DUYNE
of texas
in the house of representatives
Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize our Texas-24 Hometown Hero, Dr. Neal Odle, as for more than 50 years, he has built a legacy of education, leadership, and service in North Texas. He was recently honored with Grapevine-Colleyville Independent School District's Walk of Honor, recognizing individuals whose lasting contributions have shaped the community.
his bachelor's, master's, and later a Doctor of Education degree, Dr. Odle began his career in 1971 as a fifth-grade teacher at Colleyville Elementary School before later serving as the school's principal. In 1986, he opened O.C. Taylor Elementary School, where he served until his retirement, helping lead Grapevine-Colleyville ISD to its first Elementary National Blue Ribbon School designation awarded by the U.S. Department of Education.
Throughout his career, Dr. Odle was named Teacher of the Year and received numerous honors, including the National Association of Elementary Principals Award for excellence in education and the Jim Thompson Award for exemplary achievement in education.
Even in retirement, Dr. Odle has remained committed to serving his community. Through the Grapevine Volunteers in Police Service program, he has dedicated more than 499 hours, earning the President's Volunteer Silver Service Award. He also serves as an elder and community group leader at Compass Christian Church and enjoys building sets for musicals and for mission outreach programs, both locally and in Mexico.
Dr. Odle has made an impact on the Grapevine and Colleyville communities. I congratulate Dr. Odle on the GCISD Walk of Honor.