And I can't even begin to hide it. Even though I have an interview in an hour and a half I just have to share the news.
The bill that I filed last year as Miss New York sponsored by Assemblyman Danny O'Donnell ... was PASSED!!! It. Is. A. LAW. (Well, on July 1st it is!)
Here's what the official bill states (if read aloud by me, it would have an exclamation at the end of each sentence):
"Section one of the bill adds a new section 815 to the Education Law. The new section establishes a school based service learning based, in large part, on the Maryland program set forth in COMAR (Code of Maryland Regulations) 13A.03.02.06, requiring students to participate in community service learning programs in order to graduate from high school.
Starting with the 9th grade class in the 2010-2011 school year, students are to complete one of two community service options in order to graduate from high school. The first option, set forth in new Education Law 815(1)(a) and 3(a) , is a 40 hour requirement that complies with guidelines to be issued by the NYS Education Department. The second option, set forth in new Education Law, 815(1)(b) and 3(b), is a locally designed program that has been approved by the NYS Commissioner of Education or the Commissioner's designee. The new requirements will first apply to students who graduate from high school in the spring of 2014."
People often asked me whats I wanted my legacy as Miss New York to be. This is it. A generation of compassionate New Yorkers introduced to service even if it doesn't happen or begin in the home. This will be an impetus to thousands of lives changed. And I'm so happy for my state.
I don't cry often as you know, but my eyes are filled with happy tears.
Have a wonderful Friday, y'all! And, have a glass of wine for me tonight!
PS: Please excuse the absurd amount of exclamation points. I'm on Cloud 9.
6 comments:
With tears in my eyes, as your friend, but also as the president of our Service Learning Board in Perry Township working to establish a township-wide culture of service learning, I say CONGRATS and JOB WELL DONE, LTSS!!!! So proud of you and the difference you are making in NY and the future-- children + service = a better world!
Thanks,
Peace,
Jojo
Changing my mathematical equation to:
youth + service = a better world:)
peace
Wow! Congrats, LT!!!! That is such an awesome accomplishment.
You make me so proud! You are so amazing and I'm so blessed to have you as a best friend/sister.
LTS - This is amazing news. Your legacy will always be there and I am so proud. Erin
Congrats LT! This is so exciting. Can't wait to share with all of the educators in my life. Hope the interview went well!
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