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.