NEW PALTZ—The State University of New York at New Paltz’s School of Education recently recognized the seven recipients of this year’s Dean’s Award for Excellence in Teaching.
Since 1984, the School of Education has collaborated with school districts to honor teachers in the Mid-Hudson Valley who have attained exceptional standards in their professional careers. The Dean’s Award for Excellence in Teaching honors excellence, innovation, service, professionalism, commitment, and enthusiasm. It acknowledges the integral role that teachers play in our community where they foster the ideals of learning, inquiry, and the primacy of education as a foundation for intellectual, social, and economic well-being. The School of Education honors exceptional teachers throughout the Mid-Hudson Valley as part of its objective to recognize and foster excellence, not only among its own alumni, but among the broader community of teachers in the Mid-Hudson Valley.
Teachers who receive this annual award are recommended by area school administrators and selected by a committee of education faculty and professionals. Nominations are supported by colleagues, students, and parents with letters and student work. Criteria for this award require teachers to have made a significant impact on students’ lives, on their learning outcomes and growth, and to the school environment. The nominees are highly regarded by their supervisors, colleagues, parents, and their students.
This year’s recipients are:
Kimberly Dunkin
The Early Career Award
Furnace Woods Elementary, Hendrick Hudson School District
K-5 Music teacher
David Brown
Horizons-on-the-Hudson Magnet School, Newburgh Enlarged City School District
Director of the International Baccalaureate Program
Kim Di Curcio
Pine Tree Elementary School, Monroe-Woodbury Central School District
Grades 4 & 5 teacher
Jaime Ferrari
Furnace Woods Elementary School, Hendrick Hudson School District
Grade 1 teacher
Craig Fryer
Millbrook Middle School & High School, Millbrook Central School District
Concert and jazz band leader and instrumental music teacher
Genevieve Privitera
Pakanasink Elementary School, Pine Bush Central School District
Grade 2 teacher
Robin Scott
Berea Elementary School, Valley Central School District
Grade 4 teacher
