LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION honoring Debra Jackson upon the occasion of her
retirement as Superintendent of Highland Falls-Fort Montgomery Central
School District after many years of distinguished service

WHEREAS, It is the practice of this Legislative Body to take note of and
publicly acknowledge individuals of remarkable integrity and character
whose endeavors have enhanced the quality of education in this great
State; and
WHEREAS, The result of many individual efforts, the excellence and the
success of Highland Falls-Fort Montgomery Central School District is due
in large part to the efforts of Debra Jackson; and
WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is justly proud to honor Debra Jackson
upon the occasion of her retirement as Superintendent of Highland Falls-
Fort Montgomery Central School District after many years of distin-
guished service; and
WHEREAS, Debra Jackson earned a Bachelor's degree in Fine Arts/Art
History from Manhattanville College in 1976; she went on to earn her
Master's degree in Administration, Policy and Urban Education in 1981,
as well as a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership from Fordham
University in 1990; and
WHEREAS, In addition, she holds School District Administrator Certif-
ication in New York and New Jersey; and
WHEREAS, A true inspiration and mentor, Debra Jackson has served as
the Superintendent of the Highland Falls-Fort Montgomery Central School
District for the past seven years; she officially retired from this
esteemed position on Sunday, March 15, 2015; and
WHEREAS, During her tenure with the Highland Falls-Fort Montgomery
Central School District, Debra Jackson led more than 1,150 students,
Pre-K through grade 12, including James L. O'Neill High School which
educates students from Fort Montgomery, Highland Falls, West Point and
Garrison; and
WHEREAS, Debra Jackson was instrumental in the facilitation of a large
voter approved construction bond for repairs and renovations as well as
a United States Department of Education grant for a K-12 Innovation
Project in Science and Technology; and
WHEREAS, In addition, she was the recipient of a Lounsbery Foundation
grant for science and technology and a 21st Century Literacy Grant for
economically disadvantaged students; and
WHEREAS, In her capacity as District Superintendent for the Highland
Falls-Fort Montgomery Central School District, Debra Jackson partnered
with the Military Child Education Coalition to develop transition
programs for military families; she also collaborated with West Point
Military Academy and was the proud recipient of the 2011 Secretary of
the Army Freedom Team Salute Commendation; and
WHEREAS, A caring, competent and committed leader, Debra Jackson's
character and integrity are the hallmarks of her life and work as a
school district leader, a community volunteer and as a person; her quiet
approach and caring attitude creates confidence and loyalty among
colleagues and friends alike; and
WHEREAS, Active within the community she so ably serves, Debra Jackson
is a member of the National Superintendents Roundtable, the Mid-Hudson
Study School Council Executive Committee, Suburban Schools Superinten-
dents Association, NYSCOSS Education Assessment Advisory Committee and
the Syracuse University Project Advance Advisory Board; and
WHEREAS, The Highland Falls community is indeed fortunate and blessed
to have such a dedicated and respected educational leader since 2008;
her wisdom and contributions reached into every classroom, and she truly

made a difference in the lives of those lucky enough to have worked with
her; and
WHEREAS, Superintendent Debra Jackson has continually demonstrated an
impressive dedication, an unparalleled devotion and an unremitting
enthusiasm for the quality of the educational programs and opportunities
offered at the Highland Falls-Fort Montgomery Central School District
for the benefit of its faculty and students, as well as for the entire
community; and
WHEREAS, In completing her service as a District Superintendent, Debra
Jackson leaves behind more than mere bricks and mortar; she leaves
behind a legacy to the residents of the community and to future gener-
ations of its students; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commend Superintendent Debra Jackson upon the occasion of her retire-
ment, and for her significant contributions to education in New York
State; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to Superintendent Debra Jackson.