Georgia-2009-SR1143-Enrolled

Commending Ms. Maria O. Grovner on being named Georgia's Middle School Counselor of the Year; and for other purposes.

WHEREAS, Ms. Maria O. Grovner has long been recognized by the citizens of this state for the vital role that she has played in the lives of children and her deep personal commitment to the education of the students of Georgia; and

WHEREAS, an honor graduate of McIntosh County Academy, Ms. Grovner earned a bachelor's degree from Georgia Southern University, a master's degree from Troy State University, and a specialist degree from Argosy University; and

WHEREAS, Ms. Grovner has implemented many innovative and creative counseling activities at her current school, Creekland Middle School, which earned her recognition as the Gwinnett County and Georgia School Counselors Association Region 2 Counselor of the Year; and

WHEREAS, she has created an array of student activities that promote early college and diversity awareness and a program that focuses on special learning strategies for students displaced from their homes due to natural disasters; and

WHEREAS, Ms. Grovner coordinates a Peer Leadership Conference for Gwinnett County middle schools, which brings together over 600 peer leaders throughout the county, and has established numerous student programs to instill self-confidence, improve communication, and facilitate student academic and social achievements; and

WHEREAS, she is an active member of the Georgia School Counselors Association, serving as middle school worksetting vice president and cochair of the mentoring program, providing assistance and guidance to school counselors across this state; and
WHEREAS, Ms. Grovner's commitment to improving the lives of her students and creating a safe and welcoming school environment earned her the prestigious distinction of being named Georgia's Middle School Counselor of the Year; and

WHEREAS, in recognition of her contributions to the students in this state, it is abundantly fitting and proper for this body to honor the extraordinary commitment and accomplishments of this outstanding individual.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE that the members of this body heartily and gratefully commend Ms. Maria O. Grovner for her sacrifice, foresight, accomplishment, and contributions on behalf of Georgia's students, recognize the positive influence she has had upon the lives and futures of countless young people in this state, and congratulate her upon her recognition as Georgia's Middle School Counselor of the Year.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Secretary of the Senate is authorized and directed to transmit an appropriate copy of this resolution to Ms. Maria O. Grovner.