TITLE: Recognizing Gene Buinger on the occasion of his retirement.

SUMMARY: Recognizing Gene Buinger on the occasion of his retirement.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, Dr. Gene Buinger, the widely esteemed superintendent of the Hurst-Euless-Bedford Independent School District, is retiring from a 45-year career in education on June 30, 2013; and WHEREAS, In his capacity as district superintendent, this exceptional administrator has worked tirelessly to provide the best possible instruction and resources for the district's students, teachers, and staff; during Dr. Buinger's tenure at the helm, his initiatives have resulted in the creation of unique academic programs, successful energy conservation strategies, and closing of the achievement gap among all student groups; and WHEREAS, Since the district named Dr. Buinger to the position in 1999, Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills performances by African American, Hispanic, and economically disadvantaged students have dramatically improved, and schools now offer students exposure to new languages and fine arts courses, including Spanish Immersion, Suzuki Strings, and Core Knowledge Pre-Kindergarten, through the "Schools of Choice" curriculum; in addition, Dr. Buinger encouraged the introduction of International Baccalaureate programs and the International Business Initiative to allow secondary students the opportunity to excel on a global level; and WHEREAS, Dr. Buinger's career in education began in 1968, when he taught social studies in Kansas City; he went on to serve as a high school principal and superintendent in five different communities before arriving at the Hurst-Euless-Bedford Independent School District; his own impressive academic foundation includes a doctorate from Oklahoma State University and postdoctorate training at Columbia University and the University of Southern California; and WHEREAS, The people of Hurst, Euless, and Bedford have gained immeasurably from Dr. Buinger's exceptional leadership skills and notable commitment to student success, and it is indeed a pleasure to join in honoring him for his outstanding career in public education; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 83rd Legislature, hereby commend Dr. Gene Buinger on his professional achievements and extend to him sincere best wishes for a happy and fulfilling retirement as the superintendent of the Hurst-Euless-Bedford Independent School District; and, be it further RESOLVED, That an official copy of this Resolution be prepared for Dr. Buinger as an expression of high regard by the Texas Senate. Hancock, Davis President of the Senate I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on May 1, 2013.