Senate Joint Resolution 459, sponsored by Pody, honors Mary Decker for her dedicated career in special needs education. Decker worked with the Anoka-Hennepin School District in Minnesota from 1991 until her retirement in 2015, where she held various roles including paraprofessional, long-term substitute teacher, and special needs teacher at both Anoka and Blaine High Schools. She also served as a homebound teacher for special needs students and concluded her career as a reading teacher for struggling readers. Decker holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education with a minor in Special Education and a master's degree in Education and Reading Instructional Licensure.

After retiring, Decker continued her commitment to education by volunteering at a local elementary school in Tennessee and remains active in her church community. The resolution acknowledges her significant contributions to public service and quality education for special needs students, as well as her supportive family life with her husband, daughters, and grandchildren. The General Assembly extends its best wishes to Decker for her future endeavors, recognizing her exemplary service in the field of education.