Senate Resolution No. 1974

BY: Senator PERSAUD

CONGRATULATING Laura Pettiford-Edwards upon the
occasion of her retirement after many years of
distinguished service to the New York City
Department of Education

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
congratulate Laura Pettiford-Edwards upon the occasion of her retirement
after many years of distinguished service to the New York City
Department of Education to be celebrated with a party in her honor on
June 28, 2019, at Lenny's Clam Bar and Restaurant, Howard Beach, New
York; and

WHEREAS, A true inspiration and mentor, Laura Pettiford-Edwards has
served the New York City Department of Education for nearly 26 years;
and

WHEREAS, Laura Pettiford-Edwards began her illustrious career in
education as a Special Education Teacher before serving as a Mentor to
new teachers and Dean of Students; she went on to become Assistant
Principal of KAPPA V Knowledge and Power Preparatory Academy in
Brooklyn, New York, the esteemed position from which she will retire;
and

WHEREAS, In addition to her role as an educator, Laura
Pettiford-Edwards serves as the Associate Executive Director of Edwards
Mentoring and Social Services, an organization committed to facilitating
positive personal development in children, youth and families; and

WHEREAS, With a steadfast and unwavering commitment to her
community, Laura Pettiford-Edwards has operated a summer tutoring
program for youth experiencing challenges in ELA, Math and Science; she
has also served as a judge for NAACP Long Island Chapter dance
competitions as well as on School Leadership Teams and Parent Teacher
Associations; and

WHEREAS, Laura Pettiford-Edwards earned a Master of Science degree
in Education from Queens College and an Advanced Certification in
Educational Supervision and Administration from Hunter College; and

WHEREAS, As a knowledgeable and highly skilled Assistant Principal,
Laura Pettiford-Edwards has improved the quality of education at KAPPA V
by leading and supporting staff with enthusiasm, cultivating a positive
and stimulating school environment for her students, and creating a
greater sense of community; and

WHEREAS, A caring, competent and committed leader, Laura
Pettiford-Edwards' character and integrity are the hallmarks of her life

and work as an educational leader, a community volunteer and as a
person; and

WHEREAS, The Brooklyn community is indeed fortunate and blessed to
have had such a dedicated and respected educational leader; her wisdom
and contributions reached into every classroom, truly making a
difference in the lives of those lucky enough to have worked with her;
and

WHEREAS, With her throughout have been her husband, Larry, and her
three sons, Joshua, Jeremiah and John, who have all shown her love and
support and rejoice in her many achievements; and

WHEREAS, In completing her service as Assistant Principal, Laura
Pettiford-Edwards leaves behind more than mere bricks and mortar; she
leaves behind a legacy to the students of KAPPA V and to the residents
of the Brooklyn community; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor Laura Pettiford-Edwards upon the occasion of her retirement, and
to wish her continued success in all her future endeavors; and be it
further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Laura Pettiford-Edwards.