J 373: Honoring Jennifer Berndt upon the occasion of her designation as recipient of the Educator of the Year Award by the Clarence Chamber of Commerce on March 20, 2025

 Senate Resolution No. 373 BY: Senator GALLIVAN HONORING Jennifer Berndt upon the occasion of her designation as recipient of the Educator of the Year Award by the Clarence Chamber of Commerce on March 20, 2025 WHEREAS, It is the practice of this Legislative Body to take note of and publicly acknowledge individuals of remarkable integrity and character whose endeavors have enhanced the quality of education in this great State; and WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor Jennifer Berndt upon the occasion of her designation as recipient of the Educator of the Year Award by the Clarence Chamber of Commerce, to be celebrated at its 52nd Annual Awards Gala on Thursday, March 20, 2025, at Samuel's Grande Manor in Williamsville, New York; and WHEREAS, Jennifer Berndt is a proud Clarence alumnus who has devoted 31 years to teaching at her alma mater; inspired by a moment as a fifth-grade student where she helped a classmate problem solve, she knew from an early age that teaching would be her lifelong passion; and WHEREAS, A truly beloved member of the Clarence High School Math Department, Jennifer Berndt is affectionately described by her students as kind, funny, and approachable; and WHEREAS, Over the years, Jennifer Berndt has taught a variety of math courses ranging from General Math to Algebra Regents, Geometry Regents and Non-Regents, and even Honors Algebra 2, tailoring lessons to students of all levels and abilities; and WHEREAS, Jennifer Berndt met her husband, Tim, at Clarence High School as a student, and together they raised their two daughters, Mikayla and Morgan, in the same town; and WHEREAS, In addition to classroom teaching, Jennifer Berndt has served as co-advisor for Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD) for more than 25 years, mentoring students and fostering positive change in the community; and WHEREAS, One of Jennifer Berndt's strengths as an educator includes her innate ability to foster meaningful connections with her students; she is deeply committed to education, students, and the Clarence district, bringing enthusiasm and expertise to every lesson, and supporting students both academically and personally; and WHEREAS, The Clarence community is indeed fortunate and blessed to have such a dedicated and respected educational leader; her wisdom and contributions reach into every classroom, truly making a difference in the lives of those lucky enough to work with her; and WHEREAS, A significant contributor to education in New York State, Jennifer Berndt continually demonstrates an impressive dedication, an unparalleled devotion and an unremitting enthusiasm for the quality of the educational programs and opportunities offered at Clarence High School for the benefit of its faculty and students, as well as for the entire community; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to honor Jennifer Berndt upon the occasion of her designation as recipient of the Educator of the Year Award by the Clarence Chamber of Commerce; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to Jennifer Berndt.