Assembly Resolution No. 749

BY: M. of A. Reilly

MOURNING the death of David LaMorte, dedicated
educator, and pillar of his community

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to pay tribute to
citizens of the State of New York whose lifework and civic endeavor
served to enhance the quality of life in their communities and the great
State of New York; and

WHEREAS, David LaMorte of Staten Island, New York, died on December
27, 2023, at the age of 60; and

WHEREAS, David LaMorte distinguished himself in his profession and
by his sincere dedication and substantial contribution to the welfare of
his community; and

WHEREAS, The Assistant Principal of Visual, Performing, and Career
Arts at Tottenville High School, David LaMorte had a passion for music
and sharing it through education; and

WHEREAS, David LaMorte, with great community involvement, led the
award-winning Tottenville High School marching band for more than two
decades as its director; he additionally led a symphonic band at the
high school, was the conductor for the Staten Island Community Band, and
served as the executive director of the Summer Arts Institute, a special
summer program for gifted music and art students in New York City; and

WHEREAS, David LaMorte strongly believed in providing the best
all-around education possible to provide students with the skills
necessary to become successful, respectful, independent versions of
themselves; and

WHEREAS, For his dedication to his students and community, David
LaMorte was awarded the George N. Parks Leadership in Music Education
Award in 2018; this highly coveted accolade was developed by the
National Association for Music Education and Music for All, and is named
after the late George Parks, director of the University of Massachusetts
Minuteman Marching Band; and

WHEREAS, The recipient of this distinguished honor must demonstrate
collaborative spirit, dedication to recognizing students as individuals,
perseverance, enthusiasm, and the ability to instill qualities in
students beyond achievement in music; David LaMorte proved to be one
such individual; and

WHEREAS, David LaMorte was undoubtedly a cherished pillar of his
community and school district, and his commitment to excellence, and his
spirit of humanity, carried over into all fields of enterprise,
including charitable and civic endeavors; and

WHEREAS, Armed with a humanistic spirit and imbued with a sense of
compassion, David LaMorte leaves behind a legacy which will long endure
the passage of time and will remain as a comforting memory to all he
served and befriended; now, therefore, be it


RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
mourn the death of David LaMorte, dedicated educator, and pillar of his
community; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the family of David LaMorte.