LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION honoring Jeff Peneston upon the occasion of his
designation as recipient of The Horace Mann Award for Teaching Excel-
lence

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, This Legislative Body is justly proud to honor Jeff Peneston
upon the occasion of his designation as recipient of The Horace Mann
Award for Teaching Excellence; and
WHEREAS, Jeff Peneston received his Bachelor of Arts degree at the
State University of New York Plattsburgh, and his master's degree from
the University of Vermont-School of Natural Resources; he was also a PhD
candidate at SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry; and
WHEREAS, Jeff Peneston, who has taught at Liverpool High School for
over 25 years, is currently teaching ninth grade Earth Science; and
WHEREAS, Jeff Peneston has taught both academic and honors classes and
has collaborated on the Earth Science Symposium, an honors requirement;
and
WHEREAS, Known for facilitating student success, Jeff Peneston has
developed a variety of field experiences designed to enhance student
learning via hands-on science exploration; he has also motivated
students to take part in science research and competitions which has
resulted in several of his students winning significant awards; and
WHEREAS, Jeff Peneston is a lifelong learner who takes part in exten-
sive professional development, including his participation in the 2008
PolarTREC Program, a seven-week National Science Foundation program
which is administered by the Arctic Research Consortium of the United
States; the program allows teachers to take part in an international
voyage to one of the earth's poles for hands-on research; and
WHEREAS, Bringing his outside experiences into the classroom enables
his students to obtain a first-hand learning experience; via a series of
webcasts and lessons, Jeff Peneston allows his students to follow his
activities and learn through this unique opportunity; and
WHEREAS, Jeff Peneston's honors and awards include the 41st New York
State Teacher of the Year (2011), the District Teacher of the Year Award
for the Liverpool Central School District (2009-2010), the 2010 Technol-
ogy Alliance of Central New York Outstanding Teacher Award, and the
PolarTREC Teacher Award in 2008; he has also won several significant
grants through his exemplary work with science students and fellow
educators; and
WHEREAS, Jeff Peneston's community involvement and activities are
extensive; he has served as summer program director and natural history
educator director for Camp Talooli in Pennellville for more than 25
years; he has also been involved in his community via leadership roles
for the American Camp Association, Chorus and Drama Organization, March-
ing Band and Color Guard booster groups, and has been actively involved
in science fairs; and
WHEREAS, With his extensive resume, there is no better choice for The
Horace Mann Award for Teaching Excellence, one of public education's
most prestigious awards; and
WHEREAS, The future success of our State and Nation is dependent upon
individuals such as Jeff Peneston, who dedicate their lives as educa-
tors, nurturing our most precious resource, our youth; now, therefore,
be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor Jeff Peneston upon the occasion of his designation as recipient of
The Horace Mann Award for Teaching Excellence; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to Jeff Peneston.