LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION honoring Ralph A. Pizzo upon the occasion of his
retirement after many years of distinguished service to the Newburgh
Enlarged City School District

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 Ralph A. Pizzo
upon the occasion of his retirement after many years of distinguished
service to the Newburgh Enlarged City School District; and
WHEREAS, Ralph A. Pizzo served the Newburgh Enlarged City School
District for more than four decades; he will officially retire from the
esteemed position of Superintendent of Schools on Monday, June 30, 2014;
and
WHEREAS, A lifelong resident of Newburgh, New York, Ralph A. Pizzo
began his illustrious career in 1956 as a Classroom Educator within the
Newburgh Enlarged City School District; after 14 years of service in
this position, he was promoted to Assistant Principal, a position he
held for 13 years; and
WHEREAS, Throughout his tenure with the District, Ralph A. Pizzo
served in several capacities including Principal, Deputy Superintendent,
and Acting Superintendent of Schools; in 1998, he retired from the
District, but returned to serve on the Board for five and a half years,
followed by another six and a half years to assist with the reconfigura-
tion of the District; and
WHEREAS, Ralph A. Pizzo was instrumental in converting the high school
to grades 9-12, establishing the two middle schools and the two, soon to
be three, Kindergarten through eight schools; and
WHEREAS, A caring, competent and committed leader, Ralph A. Pizzo's
character and integrity are the hallmarks of his life and work as a
school district leader, a community volunteer and as a person; his quiet
approach and caring attitude creates confidence and loyalty among
colleagues and friends alike; and
WHEREAS, The Newburgh Community is indeed fortunate and blessed to
have such a dedicated and respected educational leader for more than
four decades; his wisdom and contributions reached into every classroom,
and he truly made a difference in the lives of those lucky enough to
have worked with him; and
WHEREAS, Ralph A. Pizzo has continually demonstrated an impressive
dedication, an unparalleled devotion and an unremitting enthusiasm for
the quality of the educational programs and opportunities offered at the
Newburgh Enlarged City School District for the benefit of its faculty
and students, as well as for the entire community; and
WHEREAS, In completing his service as Superintendent of Schools, Ralph
A. Pizzo leaves behind more than mere bricks and mortar; he leaves
behind a legacy to the residents of the Newburgh community and to future
generations of its students; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor Ralph A. Pizzo upon the occasion of his retirement, and for his
significant contributions to education in New York State; and be it
further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to Ralph A. Pizzo.