The resolution commends John F. "Trey" Smith III for his significant contributions to education and his professional achievements, particularly highlighting his recognition as a 2021 recipient of the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching, awarded by President Biden. Born in Florida and raised in Alabama, Smith has an impressive academic background, including dual Bachelor's Degrees from Louisiana State University and a Master of Education from the University of Pennsylvania. His career began with Teach for America, where he taught in Philadelphia and later took on leadership roles in various educational initiatives, including establishing programs in engineering and robotics.
Smith's influence extends beyond the classroom; he served as an Albert Einstein Distinguished Educator Fellow in the U.S. Senate, where he contributed to education policy, and was selected as the first Teacher-in-Residence at the Library of Congress. He has also been involved in numerous educational projects, grants, and workshops aimed at enhancing literacy and science education. Currently, he teaches at the University of Pennsylvania and engages with K-8 students in a makerspace. The resolution expresses the legislature's high regard for Smith's dedication to education and wishes him continued success in his endeavors.