MISSISSIPPI LEGISLATURE
2004 Regular Session
To: Rules
By: Representative Moore, Pierce, Baker (74th), Brown, Calhoun, Clarke, Denny, Ellington, Evans, Fleming, Gunn, Holloway, Jennings, Middleton, Reeves, Robinson (63rd), Rogers (61st), Rotenberry, Smith (59th), Weathersby
A RESOLUTION COMMENDING AND CONGRATULATING JOHN D. BAKELAAR UPON BEING SELECTED AS A RECIPIENT OF THE PRESIDENTIAL AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN MATHEMATICS AND SCIENCE TEACHING.
WHEREAS, John D. Bakelaar, an instructor of mathematics at Peeples Middle 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 possessing a real faith in his work and devoted to the development of the people, Mr. Bakelaar was recommended by Peeples' Assistant Principal Karen Maily; and
WHEREAS, educated in the New Jersey school system, Mr. Bakelaar, upon graduation, enrolled at William Paterson University in Wayne, New Jersey, where he earned a bachelor of science degree in elementary education; and
WHEREAS, in the furtherance of his quest for knowledge in the area of mathematics, Mr. Bakelaar furthered his education by attending Jackson State University, acquiring graduate credits, and by attending Mississippi College where he is studying to obtain his master of education degree; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Bakelaar began his teaching career in 1972 at Ridgewood Public Schools in Ridgewood, New Jersey, before working in sales and marketing management with international corporations; and
WHEREAS, missing his first love and true professional calling, Mr. Bakelaar returned to teaching in 1992 at Jackson Preparatory School as a teacher of math, English and political science, in addition to functioning as coach for the varsity soccer and baseball teams and the junior high basketball team; and
WHEREAS, currently employed with Peeples Middle School, where he has worked since 1999, Mr. Bakelaar has provided professional services, including workshops for parents and students, Delta Rural Systemic Initiative Conferences and Mathematics Department Chair; and
WHEREAS, having undergone several programs of professional development, Mr. Bakelaar has acquired the requisite skill and knowledge befitting this national honor and has been recognized as a 2003 Mississippi State Finalist for the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching, the 2002 Teacher of the Year Award by the Council of Teachers of Mathematics and publication of an article in the New York Times Magazine entitled "Algebra Project"; and
WHEREAS, throughout his illustrious career as an educator and businessman, Mr. Bakelaar has enjoyed the love and support of his family, including: wife, Pat Bakelaar; and children, Dr. Timothy Paul Bakelaar, Ellen Elizabeth Garrett and Joe Sidney Garrett, Jr.; 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 $10,000.00 cash award; and
WHEREAS, it is the policy of the House of Representatives to recognize and commend excellence in such outstanding educators as Mr. Bakelaar, whose commitment to educating the future doctors, lawyers, business men and women, teachers and political leaders, has brought great honor, pride and national recognition to himself, Peeples Middle 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 Mr. John D. Bakelaar upon his selection as a recipient of the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching and extend our heartiest wishes for success in all his future endeavors.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be furnished to Mr. Bakelaar, Peeples Middle School and to the members of the Capitol Press Corps.