Honor Educator's Retirement

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.