TITLE: Recognizing Amber Simpson for receiving a 2016-2017 Milken Educator Award.

SUMMARY: Recognizing Amber Simpson for receiving a 2016-2017 Milken Educator Award.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, Amber Simpson of Barrera Veterans Elementary School in Von Ormy was presented with a Milken Educator Award on February 7, 2017, by Governor Greg Abbott and the Texas commissioner of education, Mike Morath; and WHEREAS, Created in 1987 by the Milken Family Foundation, this prestigious award recognizes teachers who demonstrate a commitment to excellence in the field of education; in addition to offering professional development opportunities, the honor is accompanied by a $25,000 cash prize; Amber Simpson was one of only 29 educators across the country to be selected for the 2016-2017 award and the only teacher in Texas to be chosen; and WHEREAS, Amber Simpson earned her bachelor's degree in interdisciplinary studies from Texas State University in 1999 before going on to receive her master's degree in educational leadership from Concordia University in 2003; as a Teacher Advancement Program master teacher at Barrera Veterans Elementary School, she helps implement the System for Teacher and Student Advancement by providing vital mentorship and training opportunities for teachers across the campus and leading regular professional development meetings, and she serves on several curriculum committees within the Somerset Independent School District; moreover, she invests countless hours providing one-on-one tutoring for students; and WHEREAS, Through her dedication and inspiring leadership, Amber Simpson embodies the hallmarks of an outstanding educator, and she has earned the respect and admiration of all who know her; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 85th Legislature, hereby congratulate Amber Simpson on her receipt of a 2016-2017 Milken Educator Award and extend to her sincere best wishes for continued success with her important work; and, be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for Amber Simpson as an expression of high regard from the Texas Senate. Uresti President of the Senate I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on February 27, 2017.