SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 279
WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas is pleased to
recognize Dan Leija, who has been named State Teacher of the
Year; and
WHEREAS, A fifth grade mathematics and science teacher at
Esparza Elementary School in San Antonio, Dan Leija is an
innovative and resourceful educator who has had a profound
influence on the lives of his students; and
WHEREAS, Through a combination of alternative teaching
methods and obvious concern for his students' well-being, Mr.
Leija is able to reinforce the connection between what is being
taught and its real-world application, so that students can
become fully invested in their education; and
WHEREAS, Known throughout his school as Dan, Dan, the
Science Man for the wide array of unique objects in his room and
his weekly schoolwide science experiments, Mr. Leija has made
science education a living experience for all his students, who
have demonstrated impressive success on the Texas Assessment of
Knowledge and Skills test; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Leija has received recognition for his
advancement of improved teaching practices; he appeared on the
Public Broadcasting Service nationwide broadcast of a program in
which he discussed innovative ways to teach at-risk students, and
he has created and managed programs to help parents and fellow
teachers alike; and
WHEREAS, Dan Leija has made countless contributions to his
students and his community, and it is truly fitting that he be
recognized with this signal honor; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 82nd
Legislature, hereby commend Dan Leija on his commitment to his
students and his profession and extend congratulations to him on
being named State Teacher of the Year; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for
him as an expression of high regard from the Texas Senate.
Van de Putte
________________________________
President of the Senate
I hereby certify that the
above Resolution was adopted by
the Senate on February 28, 2011.
________________________________
Secretary of the Senate
________________________________
Member, Texas Senate