LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION honoring Joan O'Neill upon the occasion of her
retirement after 23 distinguished years as an educator

WHEREAS, New York State's commitment to education is unparalleled; its
history and stature are secured by the superlative caliber of its educa-
tional professionals and the students they inspire; and
WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to acknowledge the
significant milestones in the distinguished careers of those outstanding
educational leaders, whose dedication and achievements have been instru-
mental in developing character and academic excellence in the young
people of New York State; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-
standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor Joan
O'Neill, a pre-K teacher at Bishop Dunn Memorial School in Newburgh, New
York, upon the occasion of her retirement after 23 years of dedicated
service in education to be celebrated at a dinner held in her honor on
Thursday, December 3, 2009, at Diana's Restaurant in New Windsor, New
York; and
WHEREAS, Joan O'Neill's pre-K room was always active as she spent the
day introducing her students to a love for learning and teaching them
the responsibilities of being part of a community; and
WHEREAS, This exceptional educator knew the value and importance for
all children to learn well not only ABC's but respect for self and
others; her students beamed with pride each time they learned something
new; and
WHEREAS, The countless photos she took of her classes are proof that
these precious moments of childhood were not lost on her, but were truly
celebrations of success and signs of future hope; and
WHEREAS, Educators like Joan O'Neill provide a tremendous service to
the future of our State and Nation, inspiring generations of young
people in their educational journeys and ensuring their success in their
future years; and
WHEREAS, Joan O'Neill, who has enriched the lives of so many children
and families over the years, has clearly had an enduring impact on the
youth of the Bishop Dunn Memorial School, as well as on the community-
at-large, and accordingly merits recognition and applause for her
impressive dedication to others; and
WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to commend the
efforts of those individuals who work to support our proud tradition of
public education by providing their skills and talents to our schools;
now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor Joan O'Neill upon the occasion of her retirement after 23 years of
dedicated service in education, and for her significant contributions to
education in New York State; and to wish her continued success in all of
her future endeavors; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to Joan O'Neill.