Senate Resolution No. 2085 BY: Senator MURRAY CONGRATULATING Andrew Budris upon the occasion of being named the 2023-2024 Secondary Social Studies Teacher of the Year by the National Council for the Social Studies WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to commend the efforts of those individuals in the teaching profession who distinguish themselves in their dedication and commitment to their students and their communities; and WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to congratulate Andrew Budris upon the occasion of being named the 2023-2024 Secondary Social Studies Teacher of the Year by the National Council for the Social Studies; and WHEREAS, Andrew Budris resides in Bellport, New York, having earned his undergraduate degree in political science from Siena College and his Master of Arts in Liberal Studies degree from Stony Brook University; he is currently working toward his Doctorate in Learning and Teaching degree from Hofstra University; and WHEREAS, A dedicated teacher at Bellport High School in Brookhaven, New York, for more than 25 years, Andrew Budris sincerely cares about every one of his students, and his contributions to the social studies profession are truly impressive and worthy of recognition; and WHEREAS, Previously teaching in Brooklyn, New York, Andrew Budris currently teaches social studies at Bellport High School, including Advanced Placement courses, and serves as the lead teacher in the Social Studies Department; and WHEREAS, The South Country School District Board of Education and the School Superintendent recently awarded a Certificate of Achievement to Andrew Budris in recognition of his teaching accomplishments; and WHEREAS, Andrew Budris credits his impressive achievements to the unwavering support and partnership of his colleagues, the students he serves, and the educational community by which he is surrounded; and WHEREAS, As a knowledgeable, highly skilled, and dedicated teacher, Andrew Budris has improved the quality of Bellport High School by leading and supporting staff with enthusiasm, cultivating a positive and stimulating school environment for his students, and creating a greater sense of community; and WHEREAS, Additionally, Andrew Budris has successfully assisted in implementing the innovative New York State Education Department's civics education program, the Seal of Civic Readiness Program, in his school; this program serves as a model for other schools, providing students with important civic skills readiness upon graduating by helping them prepare to be positive members of their communities and society; and WHEREAS, In recognition of his hard work and professional achievements, the New York State Council for the Social Studies presented Andrew Budris with the distinguished Outstanding High School Social Studies Classroom Teacher Award in 2023; and WHEREAS, Educators like Andrew Budris provide a tremendous service to the future of our State and Nation, inspiring generations of young people in their educational journeys and ensuring their future success; and WHEREAS, Andrew Budris has clearly had an enduring impact on the youth of Bellport High School and the community; accordingly, he merits recognition and applause for his impressive dedication to others; and WHEREAS, Throughout his career thus far, Andrew Budris has brought an uncompromising standard of excellence to his work and a warm sense of caring and concern for every young person he educates; and WHEREAS, Andrew Budris continues to ensure that his students have the best possible educational experience; his latest accomplishment presents a model of academic leadership and achievement which merits the admiration and appreciation of the citizens of the State of New York; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to congratulate Andrew Budris upon the occasion of being named the 2023-2024 Secondary Social Studies Teacher of the Year by the National Council for the Social Studies; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to Andrew Budris.