Teacher of the Month

Debra Ahern - Pawling Middle School Debra is a guidance counselor at Pawling middle school. During these times of Covid children have struggled with social connections and feeling like they matter and like they belong. Deborah has gone above and beyond her duties as a guidance counselor to ensure that my daughter feels safe and loved! Although she technically is the guidance counselor for grades 5 and 6, she kept my daughter on her caseload in 7th and 8th grade to ensure that she continues to be happy and healthy in school. She has spent dozens of hours working closely with my daughter, allowing her to use her office as a safe haven when the world is so unpredictable and scary. Without Mrs Ahern, I am certain that my daughter would not have made it through this year. Adolescents need to feel like they have someone in their corner and someone who supports them unconditionally without judgement. Debra has been paramount in my daughter's success in middle school and our family will forever be grateful to her for her love and support. We want the world to know how amazing she is!

Ann Marie Flynn- Blue Mountain School Ann Marie. I love this great friend of mine. She love teaching, and She do beyond as a teacher, She will engaged herself to make sure her students are good health, have food in the table or else she will provide it for you. That's how she really is specifically when this covid started till now. She do tutor for kids are falling behind there grade or do one on one conversation if they need some listeners or just simply they want to talk. It's amaze me how she do it and on the side She is a Great Mother of four boys great kids do volunteer in our Community. And whenever I need some help or some of our friends She always say Yes whatever you asked for her. Think she really deserves this award if only I have a million dollar, I would love to buy them a month vacation. She need that and her boys.

Kim Simon- North Salem Middle School Mrs. Simon is an amazing teacher! She is my daughters special education teacher, this teacher supports my daughter throughout the day! Mrs. Simon goes above and beyond for her students. She has gotten to know my daughter at an incredible level, even during these crazy times!!! Mrs. Simon communicates with the parents regularly, which during a pandemic when parents can't really be in the schools, gives us a sense of normalcy. My daughter looks forward to going to school because of Mrs. Simon!

Lisa Slagle- Arlington High School Lisa students have learning disabilities and goes above and beyond for her students. For example, if they don't enough money for lunch or don't bring lunch she will make sure they have food to eat. Also, one students sneakers had holes in it she bought him a new pair. Even when they graduate she keeps in touch with them and makes sure if they need any help she is there for them. Helping them get a job. Another amazing thing she set up is an exercise zoom class for Autistic older students who graduate and are not being physically active because they no longer have PE. She want to make sure they continue to stay active and live healthy lifestyles. I just see the way she looks at her students and look in her eyes of compassion. I admire her and all the work she does for her students.

Andrea Bily- Putnam Valley High School Andrea has been a gym teacher for 18 years at Putnam Valley high school she is the most caring teacher that I have seen especially with Covid she make sure the children's well-being mentally and physically I doing great she never thinks of herself she always thinks of everyone else being a A physical Ed teacher no one ever thinks of these teachers as a teacher and how well they think of their students So please consider Andrea Bily she’s not only a teacher and mentor but a mom as well to all these kids

Kristin Laier- West Haverstraw Elementary Ms. Laier is so caring and loving towards her kids. During the pandemic...she has gone above and beyond for her class. I am so happy my son has Ms. Laier for first grade. For example....Today my son forgot to bring something to school. I texted Ms. Laier (yes...she gave all the parents her personal cell phone number to reach out to her day or night) that my son forgot something and that he was a little upset. She messaged me back that she told all kids that "if they forget something at home it is ok...as along as they were in class with her....she is happy"!!!! If that does not melt your heart then I do not know what else will. Ms. Laier is a fabulous teacher that deserves recognition!!!

Mark Pekowsky- Yonkers Middle High School He is truly an inspiration. He gets the class motivated despite the gloomy reality of online classes. He is a music teacher and he frequently plays music that gets the class hyped up. He makes the class laugh (especially abduel). If you were to pick a teacher for teacher of the month, pick Mr. Pekowsky!!

Karen Cibirka- Fostertown Elementary I'm nominating my wife, because she has been a dedicated caring teacher for over 10 years. Always willing too help her fellow teachers, taking her personal time too answer calls from teachers and parents. Karen has gone thru a great deal physically and mentally over the last 6 months. Contracting COVID 19 while Dealing with pregnancy. Thru it all, she has remained a positive loving teacher for her kids. I don't know anybody that could handle the stress and pressure with the class she has shown. I hope you can acknowledge all her hard work during this trying year. Thank you for your time

Pamela Carducci McAvoy- Hauppauge High School Pamela always loved science when she was a student. Her undergraduate degree is in Chemical Engineering and, upon graduation, she worked in research in the food industry at a major Westchester business. This business was very community-oriented and, therefore, Pamela had the opportunity to volunteer in the local school. She supported the classroom teacher in his science lessons. She added excitement to the subject. At one point in her volunteer work, the classroom teacher told her, "If you ever want to change your career, you'll be a wonderful science teacher!" It clicked for her and she went to graduate school to obtain her teaching degree in the evenings while working full time. Pamela has been working at Hauppauge over 15 years teaching Chemistry. She excites the students especially when teaching concepts through experiments. Students thank her for such an exciting class and some ask her to write their college letters of recommendations. As her mother, it is wonderful to witness how she also excites her own daughters and her son about chemistry! Last summer, on a hot day, they made smores, with a makeshift 'solar' oven. The children excitedly took part in the experiment by building their ovens, but more so, enjoyed the outcome! Like many teachers during this pandemic, Pamela has risen to the occasion of teaching in the classroom while also teaching students who chose to learn remotely. As always, she's given her best effort and the students appreciate it!

Victoria Rendina- Charter School Of Educational Excellence I would like to honor this teacher because she is a old fashioned genuine teacher as my mother would call it, she cares about all students equally, at the same time she makes lessons fun keeping us intrigued. Please, Pick her she deserves it! 🤍😊

Meghan Meade- Quaker Ridge School Meghan is extremely caring and considerate, with many years of experience. During this pandemic, she selflessly went over and above attending to her students' needs! All of this while raising twin pre-K boys! I admire her immensely-she's an asset to the Scarsdale school system!

Michelle Kaplan- Albert Leonard Middle School Michelle has found the right balance of caring for her young family while providing her students with the optimum amount of effective and affective learning experience during a most difficult pandemic period in our country. Her ability to channel the love of her work to a love of school for her students despite continuously changing work conditions, is way above the call of duty.

Jackie Alleva- Rogers Park Middle School During this pandemic, my fiance faced many challenges teaching her students and overcame many odds to try to provide them with the best learning environment she could. She is very dedicated to what she does and is up until 1am some nights to prepare the best lessons possible. Some of her students require more attention then others and she takes the necessary time to help every student when needed. I have never seen someone more committed to their craft and she deserves the recognition for all the work she has put in thus far. Since she is teaching special education, she has taken this opportunity to think outside the box and created a good environment for her students even with the challenges of remote learning. She listens to this station alot and I really hope she gets it. I couldn't think of anyone more deserving then her.

Dardanella Russell-Scott- Vails Gate STEAM Academy Mrs. Russell-Scott is not only dedicated to being a great friend, but her dedication as a teacher goes above and beyond for her children in her class, and outside of the classroom. "Dee-Dee" displays her importance of making sure our children get the appropriate, accurate education, and help they need by participating in the after school programs, dedicating her time and commitment to "Pop Warner" cheerleading and football committees over the years, (non-Covid times), in between earning a couple of more degrees, so that she can continue to be as knowledgeable as possible to our children of the future. I couldn't think of anyone better for this nomination!

Ashley Pandiscia- Irvington Middle School Ashley teaches the VIP program at Irvington, The VIP program is a program for students with special needs. She was new to the class this year and had to meet and coordinate students in school and remotely. Many of her students were new to the program also. She has been wonderful asset to Irvington and to the VIP program.

Christopher Frustaglio- Riverside High School Chris is a dedicated History Teacher. He goes out of his way to make sure his students feel loved and care for. He also goes above and beyond to make sure they get the help they need in his class. Pre Covid: When he did after school tutoring with them, he will buy pies of pizza for the students or donuts. His students come from struggling homes and he makes them feel heard, understood and safe. He truly is a wonderful teacher!

Marry Guerriero- Marlboro You should honor Marry Guerriero because she is a wonderful teacher. For example, she keeps everyone interested in what we are doing, she helps people if they don't under stand or if they are stuck on something like a lesson, she encourages everyone to participate for example she will through in a peace of candy to whom ever she called on and got it right and then everyone raised their hand, she lets you do the work independently so she can see if you can figure out the problems, she also lets you pick out a partner for the lesson and you can do your work together but now in COVID she still lets you do partners but with you mask on and social distanced, and last but not least she keeps you interacting with what we are doing.

Patty Capocciamo- Goshen Middle School I have the privilege to work with her and be her friend! She teaches math to 6th graders and finds ways to make MATH FUN ( if that's possible.) For example, with the pandemic, it's pretty boring to watch and do Math on a google meet. SHE decided to teach these students fractions by making cookies together on the meet! Learning the fractions with measurements for all the baking ingredients! Not only did all her students participate, they thoroughly enjoyed the lesson and said it made it easy for them to understand fractions better! They look forward to all their lessons with her. She been teaching in Goshen for over 30 years and still loves teaching everyday! This teacher is an inspiration and a joy to work with. In the picture below, Patty is on the left and I'm the right.

Rebecca Greenfeld- Brewster High School Dr. Greenfeld is an incredibly caring teacher. Her friendly attitude and heartwarming personality make her class an inviting experience. As an engineering teacher, she has a duty to her students to simplify incredibly complex concepts, and she does so incredibly well. She's very passionate about her class and every elective she teaches. I am proud to nominate her for Teacher of the Month!

Laura Pampalone- Roy C. Ketcham High School Mrs. Pampalone is in her first year at Ketcham High School but has made an incredible impression on our school already. Her spirit is contagious. She holds afterschool sessions to help students with guided imagery and mindfulness. She helped the PTSA create and run a Stress Less Week where students were treated to free yoga, meditation, art and other workshops to help them learn ways to deal with stress. She got students involved with a door decorating contest. She continuously seeks programs and activities to enhance the educational and extracurricular experiences for her students.

Eric Schwark- Carmel High School He's super funny and helps us keep our spirits up in these trying times. He always puts music on a hosts a class dance party before we start the lesson. He's also super goofy and that inspires us to be ourselves. He really is a great teacher. Great teachers don't just teach kids, they become close to their students and are a role model to them. That is who he is. That is what he strives for. Most importantly, he always tells us that we will pass. Passing his class is guaranteed with his attitude and zest.

Kelly Garcia-Omana- South Middle School (Newburgh) Mrs. Garcia spends endless hours preparing multi media lessons that engage her students in fun and exciting ways. Her students enthusiastically research Social Studies information, coo berate their findings, develop role playing scenarios that help them to relate to the diverse world we live in. The Corona Pandemic has not stifled their zest for learning. Despite constant shifting from remote to on site teaching, her class attendances and quests remain high. Over her 18 years of teaching she has impacted many lives. She reinforces the importance or self-worth by acknowledging each students successes, big / small, personal/ collectively. Students she taught in elementary school come back to visit her and invite her to attend their High School Graduations ( some as Valedictorians) because they feel it was her encouragement that kept them striving. She is a Loving, nurturing, motivating soul.

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Thomas Locmajian- Karafin School You should honor this teacher because Mr. Loc makes learning about History fun. He is the funniest teacher known to man and he gives nicknames to every single one of his students. History seems easy and I seemed to pay more attention when he is the one teaching. He also shaves his head for the saint baldricks fondation. To help cure child cancer.

Lawrence Scarzfava- Minisink Valley High School The following is written by my daughter, Megan Murray: "As soon as my mom told me about nomination someone for Teacher of the Month, I thought no one would fit the spot better than my English teacher. Mr. Scarzfava is one of the best teacher I will ever have. He always starts class playing music, welcoming us with open arms. He keeps class interesting and has everyone entertained. Mr. Scarzfava has the best attitude, even through tough times. He always goes the extra mile for his students. While I was learning online, I was unable to get a certain book and even during the pandemic, he still brought the book to me. I always look forward to his class and I will never forget it. Mr. Scarzfava teachers his students more than just English and literature, he teaches them important life skills, messages, and how to be a good person. The list goes on. I can truly say that he has changed my perspective on negative things and has changed my perspective on life in general. Overall, Mr. Scarzfava is an amazing teacher and amazing person, students who had or will have him as a teacher are extremely lucky." I also wanted to add. Mr. Scarzfava hand delivered the book that my daughter needed for her class to our home. He absolutely went the extra mile. Both my daughter and I are very grateful and so touched for his kindness.

Stephen Kingsley- Lakeland High School He fought so hard to become a great English teacher. He loves what he does he makes teaching English fun. He started a superhero class so the kids can use their imaginations and be more creative. He's just an all around great teacher.

Thomas Baffuto- Pleasantville High School Mr. Baffuto goes above and beyond the scope of basic teacher responsibility. He is ALWAYS, willing to do what it takes to help the students out. He comes in during school breaks, stays after school everyday and during these difficult times is determined to help his students be successful. Not only is he here to help out the students, but also helps out his collogues when needed. Mr. Baffuto deserves the recognition and much more.

Samantha Croney-Kaplan- Lincoln Elementary School It's been a challenging year for all teachers, but unfortunately I can't speak on the experiences of others. I can, however, attest to the difficulties my wife has experienced this year. Thankfully the year started remotely. The downside was having to share a one-bedroom condo as both of us were working from home. Not being in the classroom forced Samantha to adjust her lesson plans while dealing with the challenges of the online platform her district used for virtual learning. Every class was delayed by five to ten minutes waiting for kids to arrive or dealing with other technical difficulties. My wife constantly had to remind students to turn on their cameras or adjust them so they would be in view. After the first month and a half or so, teachers returned to school for a hybrid program. Some students went to school while many stayed home. This proved to be a challenge as my wife had to set up her equipment so she could teach kids at home and in person. This also took some time away from instruction. Rather than have students move from class to class, it was the teachers who changed rooms each period. On many occasions my wife has come home frustrated by the fact she has no space to call her own. During free periods she doesn't have a quiet place where she can prepare for the next class or grade papers. While dealing with the everyday challenges as a teacher, like chasing after kids who aren't handing in assignments, Samantha also serves as team leader. I'm not sure what this entails entirely, but I know she had to schedule classes for each teacher to begin the year. She meets with them weekly to discuss things like progress the kids are making, or those who just aren't making the grade. As if her 90 to 120 minute commute (depending on traffic) wasn't exhausting enough, many times my wife has come home to vent, telling me how tired she is or how done she is with the school year. Teachers have had to go above and beyond this year and my wife is no exception. I hope you choose to honor her.

Matthew Mohler- Iona Preparatory Mr. Mohler cares about us his students as historians and as people. Teaching us life skills as well as the history. He has personally impacted me and made me more outgoing and found a greater love for history. He also had a great book recommendation!

Amanda Goodman- St. Columbanus School Mrs. Goodman started as Miss Marini in 2017 at St. Columbanus and she has been a wonderful teacher that everyone loves. She teaches ELA to the 6th, 7th and 8th grade classes. I learned so much and had so much fun in her class. She did a creative writing after-school program where we wrote original stories. She worked so hard to bring the best effort from everyone in the class. For a school talent show in 2019, she organized a group dance that the whole 7th grade class participated in and it is one of my favorite memories. I graduated in June 2020, and because we couldn't have a proper graduation, Mrs. Goodman created a video presentation that incorporated photos of events from all our years in the school. She collected pictures from before she started from anyone that had them. When classes went remote, she posted videos for parents to help them navigate the virtual classroom. She was always available for extra help and went above and beyond.

Michelle Pomdal- Thomas Jefferson Elementary School The reason why I am nominating Michelle Pondal is because she was my daughters and sons teacher when they were in third grade. My children are now 21 and 23 years old. We think about what is going On in the world right now and our teachers are very dedicated but I need to stress that Mrs. Pondal prepared my children for a situation that we are currently going through. She taught them to be tough, stronger and to think what to do in tough situations and try to get through them. She left the new credible Mark and my kids that are still instilled in them. She had such a quiet way about her to reassure them and guide them through hard times, and let them know nothing is impossible to get through. Can I stress strongly if it wasn't for her my kids may have not gone through this Covid situation as well as they did. She gave them so much confidence and let them know the world is not going to be Easy at all times but if they put their foot in front of the other and had the constitution they can conquer whatever they Want. Please consider her, because even though it's not today they had her but it's a lifetime of what she instilled in them and in my eyes that's a true teacher.

Micah Sweeney- Delaware Valley Middle School Mr. Sweeney is an eighth grade social studies teacher. When I think of a teacher, I think of someone who is constantly encouraging young minds. Mr. Sweeney has done this even in these tough times. His devotion shows in the success of so many lives he's touched. Even while snow was coming down and streets were getting covered this past winter, he was in his classroom teaching remotely. Also, covid has not stopped him to try and find ways to encourage young minds. Whether it's through videos, readings, or pictures, he has kept everyone interested and engaged in learning. The laughter from his students is uplifting. His heart is truly made of gold and he has truly touched the lives of so many. He is always working and making sure our students are getting the best education possible. His kindness, laughter and passion have helped shaped the lives of so many.

Krysta Kroohs- Lakeland High School she is a really really kind and she reminds me of my mom a lot and she is so cool and calm so i want her to feel special.

Kyle Roach- St.Denis - St.Columba WHUD should honor my fifth grade teacher Mr.Roach because he is awesome. Mr.Roach is new to St.Columba this year just like I am. This is my first year at the school and I love it because of my teacher Mr.Roach. He make me want to try and push myself to do the best that I can in all of the subjects. He teaches our class Math, Religion, Social Studies, Science and ELA. One of my favorite subjects is Grammar because Mr.Roach makes learning fun. One time we were learning exclamatory phrases and he acted out the phrase, "watch out!" We all jumped out of our seats. It was very funny. He also calls me the preposition Queen! Mr. Roach is also very patient when he teaches our class. Sometimes it is hard because he teaches kids in school and he teaches the kids at home on the computer at the same time. Sometimes the internet doesn’t work. I really like how Mr.Roach doesn’t. keep us on the computer all day. He lets us do fun sheets! Did I mention Mr.Roach is also an alien. We hear weird ringing noises that randomly go off in the class sometimes. There are also about 35 little green aliens in the class that are his friends. They come from their home to watch over us. He is a little “sus“, AKA suspicious! These are my reasons why Mr.Roach should be honored as the (Alien) Teacher of the Month!

Lori Butler- Brinckerhoff Elementary School Mrs.Butler is a phenomenal Special Education Teacher. She has been absolutely amazing teaching during a pandemic. She has been on Googlemeets with her baby on her lap and her 4 year old son teaching simultaneously. She has stayed online with my son well after she is contractually obligated to just because she had him engaged and wanted to encourage him to keep going. She has emailed and texted me almost daily, sometimes a few times a day just to help me help my son,check in,offer help etc. She is working 3 times harder and longer than she's paid to. She is a prime example of what every American Special Education teaching student should aspire to be. We are so grateful for her dedication and pride she takes in her job. She truly teaches from the heart and that is what makes her make a difference for her students. She has found her calling and we couldn't be more appreciative for her sharing her gift and helping our son improve.

Brigida Smythe- Fox Lane H.S. Mrs. Smythe is the SAIL IV teacher at Fox Lane H.S. where she teaches students with different abilities. Not only does she have incredible knowledge of her craft, but also a deep understanding of her students. She knows exactly when to push her students to perform at a higher level, and how to best support them when they need it the most. The sudden switch to online learning last March was not easy for students with disabilities, but was made bearable by Mrs. Smythe's dedication to her students. Everyone student was sent the necessary tools (communication boards tailored to the lesson as well as other symbol supports) to participate in online instruction. She made lessons as engaging as she possible could and tailored individual work to each student's level. She and her staff had been able to take a former student, my son, who has challenging behaviors, to multiple work sites in the community. She looked past the behavior and focused on the skills my son possessed (as she does all her students). This gave him the opportunity to prove to others just how much a minimally verbal autistic person can accomplish.

Megan Clark- Little Tor Elementary I would like to have Ms.Clark honored as a fantastic teacher, because she is. She give great attention to all of her students, and treats them as an individuals. Ms.Clark is kind but firm and allows the children to be kids. When ever she feels my William needs a little help or direction she calls and lets me know . She helps me be a better mom. We are blessed to have such a wonderful teacher like our Ms.Clark. Thank you for your consideration. Tricia

To All Parents I nominate every parent who instantly became a teacher as well. We work by day and are teachers by night. I salute us parents with many hats. We sacrifice quality bonding time for schooling time. I also salute the students for their ability to learn remotely and socially distant from their friends.

Robin Condoluci- Felix Fiesta Ms.Condoluci is a brilliant angel for my Luke. Luke is on the autism spectrum. He always wanted to read , but has a very hard time really getting it. That was before Ms.Condoluci. Now he is a wonderful reader. During Covid remote learning I would listen in on her class. She was so engaging and she gave attention to every student. I would ask Luke how was class? He would reply, " She is crazy, and laugh, crazy good mom". I believe teaching is not a job but a vocation for Ms.Condoluci. We are blessed to have her as a teacher.

Jennifer Ahn- Ardsley Middle School Jennifer Ahn teaches both of my children social studies. My daughter was fortunate to have her for two years. She is friendly and warm and connects with the students in a caring, non judgmental way. She has passion for the content she teaches and finds ways to get the kids to remember historical facts and topics. She has 4 kids of her own and she's always working hard to find new ways to make learning fun for her students during this challenging year.

Katrina O'Malley- Beekman Elementary Katrina is an AIS reading teacher at Beekman Elementary and Noxon Elementary with the Arlington School District. She is also my daughter. Katrina shares with me the messages she gets from families - she is a remote teacher to her students this crazy crazy year - "you are the only positive part of his day" one parent stated. She has driven to her students houses, on more than one occasion, to deliver supplies; gifts or a requested book to read. The new normal is especially hard when you have your own young children to contend with - keeping them busy and motivated while online working. She does this all with a smile and never ending words of encouragement. She is a natural and every teacher (and school staff member) should be applauded for everything that they have had to work through this school year. So, with that said, I would love to nominate Katrina Lynn for Teacher of the Month. Thank you! Katrina's mom 🙂

Judy Toledano- Lakeland Copper Beech Middle School Mrs. Toledano is very engaging. She has this energy that is so contagious and makes every lab fun. She said at the beginning of the year she hopes everyone will become a scientist one day! She inspires me to be the best I can be. She helps me to be really curious about science. I am even researching things we are learning about in class at home too. She is so funny and makes the class laugh a lot. Her love of baby Yoda is also very funny and is something we can all relate to. Mrs. Toledano is so excited about science and you can tell she really loves teaching. She has been an important mentor to me through the pandemic because she never gives up, she always has a positive attitude, and goes above and beyond for her class making sure they have all the lab materials they need. I wish every student could have Mrs. Toledano as their teacher. She is very important to me and I hope she wins Teacher of the Month!

Christine Acquilino- Putnam Valley Middle School Christine is a wonderful educator and is raising twin boys and a little girl too. She also fosters dogs and post pictures on Facebook of everyone. She has energy that never ends and will always be number one in my book.

Heather Carter- Chatsworth Avenue School Mrs.Carter is just the most caring loving kindest person on school staff. She goes above & beyond often taking the most challenging students. Mrs. Carter is the most sought after teacher aide in the district. Mrs.Carter loves her job & her students & it shows everyday after 18 years many of her former students often seek her guidance well until adulthood she truly is special and the school & community would not be the same without her. Thanks for all you do Mrs.Carter

Cristina Samoyedny- Cross Hill If my wife goes above and beyond all the work that she has put into her students everyday until late in the evening and I see how hard she works for those children.

William Huestis- Austin Road Elementary Mr. Huestis goes above and beyond for all of his students. He uses personal time to research and learn new ways to improve all aspects of not only his program but the entire school building. He is one of the adaptive physical education teachers and looks to give the special needs population the best experience possible. He brings in his own materials to provide sensory experiences they would otherwise not have. Mr. Huestis has embraced our students and his commitment to them shines through. His compassionate personality connects with our students at their level and pushes them to their fullest potential. Mr. Huestis is willing to work with all students to support them emotionally, academically and physically whether they are assigned to his classroom or not. Most recently, he ran multiple 5Ks in honor of one of our 6:1:2 self contained classrooms to donate money to autism research. His dedication and inclusivity should be seen as an example for all educators.

Melissa Ferraro- Ossining Middle School I am nominating Melissa Ferraro as teacher of the month because she puts in countless hours a day for her student because of the love she has for the school and her students!! Melissa is doing online learning and in person teaching five days a week and never complains one bit. Their is never a moment that goes by that Melissa is not thinking of ways that she can do to do better for her kids. When Melissa works on her lesson plans for the week she is always trying to find ways that will make learning easier for her students to understand on a daily basis. I hope that you choose Melissa Ferraro as your teacher of the month because she truly deserves the recognition for all of the Hard hard work that she puts in day in and day out!!

Kyle Delaney- The Harvey School Mr Delaney, has been at the Harvey school for over 10 years and is also an alumnus of the school. He is praised by all his students and is often spoken about as the student's best teacher. Mr. Delaney teaches History with a refreshing take, that allows students to build their critical thinking skills and view History from an un-bias perspective. Mr Delaney also coaches the varsity football team at Harvey. Whether on the field or in the classroom Mr. Delaney helps counsels students through difficult times and allows them to learn in an environment suited to their own needs. He is caring and thoughtful, extremely patient, and always has kind words to share with people around him. Through the pandemic Mr. Delaney tough remote, but did everything possible to keep History fun and worthy of inspiration and memory. Alexandra Trenfor said "the best teachers are those who show you where to look, but don't tell you what to see", and this is exactly what Mr. Delaney strives to daily.

Joshua Baskin- Copper Beech Middle School Mr. Baskin teaches 6th grade social studies. His approach to teaching is to follow a Mastery Learning and Rolling Grading system. This approach to teaching is unique and has proven to be invaluable during these difficult pandemic times. His expectation is to prepare students for the world of secondary education. He wants all of his students to achieve success hence the repeated opportunities for revisions keeping them engaged throughout the process. He inspires, cares, encourages students to do their best. He listens, guides and is a mentor shaping the future of next generation. Mr. Baskin is truly a wonderful teacher.

Ana Jhaver- Monroe Woodbury Middle School This is my first year of a foreign language (Spanish) and Miss Jhaver teaches it with patience, consideration and humor. She broke her arm and missed some in school time but still managed to keep on top of us and always met us online, period 5 Spanish, to keep the lessons going and have us continuing to enjoy the class. Mi Profesora es genial!

Moira Normile- Kennedy Catholic HS I have been a good friend and colleague for many years. Not only is she is a great English teacher, she is a great person. Moira always puts the kids first. She recognizes that children learn in different ways- a method that works for one may not work for others. She makes sure to reach every one of her students. She works with them after school, during lunch, or whenever she has free time. If they are lax about handing in assignments, she will find them in the hallway and have them come to her classroom at a particular time to make up the work. Moira is amazing at connecting with the students. Often, they will come to her room just to talk. Maybe they have something going on at home, maybe problems with friends, or with other teachers. She listens and seems to always be able to help them feel better. After students have graduated, they still keep in touch with her and will come to school to sit and talk. I retired two years ago, but Moira is still going strong. She would be a great choice for your recognition. Thank you!

Craig Colasante- Lincoln-Titus Elementary Mr. Colasante has been the most amazing teacher during this pandemic. My older son, now 11, also had him in 1st grade. He had both of my children performing at their peak. He is an asset to Lincoln-Titus and I'm glad both my children had the opportunity to learn from him.