SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 571 WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas is pleased to recognize Jeane Block Spencer on her distinguished career as an educator; and WHEREAS, Naturally drawn to the field of education, Jeane was gifted and driven as a student, and she graduated first in her class from Pickard High School and was the first African American student to be accepted into Blinn College's academic program; she continued her education at The University of Texas, where she earned a bachelor's degree in English and soon after, she began her long and fulfilling career as a teacher; and WHEREAS, Jeane worked as a fifth-grade teacher with the Aldine School District in Houston, where she received valuable guidance and mentorship from the district's dedicated educators; while living in Houston, she continued her education at the University of Houston, and she married Dennis A. Spencer Sr., her beloved late husband; and WHEREAS, After relocating to New Mexico, Jeane taught with Las Cruces Public Schools, and she and her husband were blessed with two sons, Dennis and William; she continued her career as an educator in New Mexico for 18 years, including serving as a special-education teacher for more than a decade; her empathetic and creative approach to teaching helped her students to flourish in their environment; and WHEREAS, A woman of strong spiritual faith, Jeane has been a longtime member of the congregation of Bethel Second Baptist Church, where she has served as a Sunday school teacher, deaconess, and as the Christian education vice chair; she has contributed numerous written articles to The Mission, a study guide for the women of the National Baptist Convention, USA; and WHEREAS, A highly respected alumna of Blinn College and The University of Texas, Jeane has reflected the highest ideals of teaching throughout her career, and her dedication as an educator has made a positive and lasting difference in the lives of countless students; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 88th Legislature, hereby commend Jeane Block Spencer on her exemplary career and on her many contributions to excellence in education; and, be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for her as an expression of esteem from the Texas Senate. Kolkhorst ________________________________ President of the Senate I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on May 15, 2023. ________________________________ Secretary of the Senate ________________________________ Member, Texas Senate