House Resolution 52

A RESOLUTION COMMENDING AND CONGRATULATING AMY BURKS UPON BEING SELECTED AS A RECIPIENT OF THE PRESIDENTIAL AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN MATHEMATICS AND SCIENCE TEACHING.

WHEREAS, Amy Burks, an instructor of science at Corinth High School, was recently named one of 95 individuals in the nation, and one of two individuals in Mississippi to receive a Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching, the highest commendation in their profession; and

WHEREAS, described as one who goes above and beyond the call of duty in being a regular classroom teacher, Mrs. Burks was recommended for the award by a colleague; and

WHEREAS, educated in the public school system of Walnut, Mississippi, Mrs. Burks, upon graduation, enrolled at Blue Mountain College in Blue Mountain, Mississippi, where she earned a bachelor of science degree in natural science; and

WHEREAS, in furtherance of her quest for knowledge in the area of science, Mrs. Burks furthered her education by attending Hill Junior College in Hillsboro, Texas, where she acquired her Texas licensure in teaching, Delta State University in Cleveland, Mississippi, where she obtained a master of natural sciences degree, in addition to engaging in advanced graduate studies in physics at Mississippi University for Women in Columbus, Mississippi, and advanced graduate studies in physics and chemistry at Mississippi State University in Starkville, Mississippi; and

WHEREAS, Mrs. Burks began teaching in 1984 at Cleburne High School in Cleburne, Texas, and since has taught in Tennessee and various parts of Mississippi on the secondary and collegiate levels; and

WHEREAS, currently employed by Corinth High School where she has taught chemistry and physics since 2000, Mrs. Burks' professional services include Science Fair Coordinator; Tech Prep Regional Meeting Leader; SACS Committee Chair; Chemistry/Physics Team Coach; Mississippi Science Teachers Association Convention Delegate and Science Department Chair; and

WHEREAS, having undergone several programs of professional development, including Test Item Writer Training, National Board for Professional Teaching Standards certification, Advance Placement Teacher Institutes, GLOBE Training, Tech Prep Training and Best Practice Workshop, Mrs. Burks has acquired the requisite skill and knowledge befitting this national honor; and

WHEREAS, chosen by a panel of renowned mathematicians, scientists and educators in coordination with the White House staff, recipients of the Presidential Award will also receive a $10,000 cash award; and

WHEREAS, it is the policy of the House of Representatives to recognize and commend excellence in such outstanding educators as Mrs. Burks, whose commitment to educating future doctors, lawyers, business men and women, teachers and political leaders has brought great honor, pride and national recognition to herself, Corinth High School and the State of Mississippi:

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, That we do hereby commend and congratulate Mrs. Amy Burks upon her selection as a recipient of the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching and extend our heartiest wishes for success in all her future endeavors.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be furnished to Mrs. Burks, Corinth High School and to the members of the Capitol Press Corps.