Senate Resolution No. 651

BY: Senator JACOBS

COMMENDING James Newton upon the occasion of his
retirement after more than 31 years of dedicated
service to the City of Tonawanda School District

WHEREAS, New York State's commitment to education is unparalleled;
its history and stature are secured by the superlative caliber of its
educational professionals and the students they inspire; and

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to acknowledge
the significant achievements in the distinguished careers of those
outstanding educational leaders, whose dedication and accomplishments
have been instrumental in developing character and academic excellence
in the young people of the State of New York; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
commend James Newton upon the occasion of his retirement after more than
31 years of dedicated service to the City of Tonawanda School District;
and

WHEREAS, After more than three decades of steadfast and unwavering
service as an educator and administrator, James Newton will officially
retire from the esteemed position of Superintendent of the City of
Tonawanda School District on July 1, 2017; and

WHEREAS, Throughout his illustrious career, James Newton has held
numerous positions in the education field as Junior-High Principal,
Middle-High School Principal; in January of 2013, he was appointed
Superintendent; and

WHEREAS, In this capacity, James Newton strived to create a positive
school climate, increase the graduation rate and raise student
achievement; he soon reached his goal and pledged to do even better; and

WHEREAS, Truly dedicated to the students, James Newton was involved
in the community as a member of the Exchange Club, Kiwanis Club, and a
Board member for the Northtowns Boys and Girls Club; he enjoyed
attending various social events, such as athletic games, concerts,
technology competitions, pep rallies and ceremonies as dedication to his
scholars; and

WHEREAS, James Newton has continually demonstrated an impressive
dedication, an unparalleled devotion and an unremitting enthusiasm for
the quality of educational programs and opportunities offered at the
City of Tonawanda School District for the benefit of its faculty and
students, as well as for the entire community; and

WHEREAS, Educators like James Newton 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, James Newton has clearly had an enduring impact on the
youth of the City of Tonawanda School District, as well as on the
community-at-large, and accordingly merits recognition and applause for
his impressive dedication to others; and

WHEREAS, In completing his service as an educator and administrator,
James Newton leaves behind more than mere bricks and mortar; he leaves
behind a legacy to the residents of the Tonawanda community and to
future generations of its students; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commend James Newton upon the occasion of his retirement after more than
31 years of dedicated service to the City of Tonawanda School District;
and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to James Newton.