Spotswood Borough Proclamations

Proclamation

WHEREAS, Mary M. Hamm began her Catholic school journey in New York City where she attended Most Holy Redeemer Elementary School and St. Vincent Ferrer High School. She continued at Hunter College, where in 1976, she received her Master's Degree in Early Childhood Education and at Fordham University, receiving her Master's Degree in Administration and Supervision in 2000; and

WHEREAS, Mary's career as a Catholic School teacher began in 1973 at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel in New York City. After volunteering as a CCD teacher and then as a substitute teacher at Immaculate Conception School, it led her to a kindergarten teaching career in September, 1986; and;

WHEREAS, Mary's enthusiasm in sharing her love for God with the children inspired her to develop a Pre-Kindergarten program in 1994. The Pre-K program began with 126 students and has grown to its present enrollment of 276 students. Under her administration, a new wing was added to accommodate the additional enrollment in the Pre-K; and

WHEREAS, due to the success of this program, her friendly, encouraging manner with teachers, staff and parents and her dedication to the ideas and vision of Catholic School education, Father Hirsh appointed Mary Hamm as the Principal of Immaculate Conception School and Pre-K program in September, 2001; and

WHEREAS, since becoming Principal, Mary Hamm has instituted accelerated and average classes in math and science in the junior high. She began an extra algebra course to enhance the math program for the eighth graders and she has been able to better the fine arts program, integrate computer education with other subjects, and start a hot lunch program for the students. In order to develop a well-rounded student, Mary Hamm began the athletic program where the athletes can participate in baseball, basketball, cross country, soccer and softball; and

WHEREAS, Mary Hamm is an exceptional Catholic School Administrator who led Immaculate Conception School and Pre-K into the 21st Century with a continuous mission of educating children in an environment that fosters integrity, charity and scholarship.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Mayor and Borough Council extend their congratulations to Mary M Hamm upon receiving the honor of "The Diocese of Metuchen Distinguished Educator Award" for 2008. Further, we extend our sincere thanks and appreciation for Mary's dedication and service to Immaculate Conception School and Pre-K program.

Dated January 28, 2008

Barry H. Zagnit

Mayor

ATTEST:

Patricia DeStefano RMC

Municipal Clerk