The resolution commends John F. "Trey" Smith III for his significant contributions to education and his numerous professional achievements. Notably, he received the prestigious Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching in 2021, awarded by President Biden. Smith, originally from Florida and raised in Alabama, has an impressive academic background, holding dual Bachelor's Degrees from Louisiana State University and a Master's in Education from the University of Pennsylvania. His teaching career began with Teach for America in Philadelphia, where he made substantial impacts at Morrison Elementary and Boys' Latin of Philadelphia Charter School, including establishing various educational programs and initiatives.
In addition to his teaching roles, Smith has engaged in education policy as an Albert Einstein Distinguished Educator Fellow in the U.S. Senate, contributing to the Every Student Succeeds Act and serving as the first Teacher-in-Residence at the Library of Congress. He has also been involved in various educational projects and grants, focusing on writing, literacy, and science education. Currently, he teaches at the University of Pennsylvania and works 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.