The SUNY New Paltz School of Education has presented five regional teachers with the 2015 Dean’s Awards for Excellence in Teaching. The Dean’s Awards are an annual tradition recognizing the most deserving Hudson Valley educators based on the nominations of their school district administrators and colleagues.
The following honorees received awards from Dean Michael S. Rosenberg at a ceremony this month hosted by the School of Education, and at a subsequent banquet hosted by the Mid-Hudson School Study Council:
- Maribeth Lauri, a social studies teacher at Monticello High School, was nominated for her demonstration of “passion, commitment, and leadership.”\
- Kimberly Carver, a music teacher at Valley Central High School, was nominated for her “caring, nurturing soul” and love of music.
- Pamela Stewart, recently retired second grade teacher from Furnace Woods Elementary School, was recognized for her influence over the school’s curriculum, and ability to work with students creatively and help them identify their strengths. One nominator recalled feeling sad not only because Stewart was leaving, but because future students would be unable to experience her class.
- Jeffrey Knight, fourth grade teacher from Chester Elementary School and Dean’s Award recipient, has sparked a love for history in his students and improved the fourth grade social studies curriculum.
- Maureen Cunningham, English teacher from Rhinebeck High School, was nominated for inspiring her students with a love of reading.
- Christopher DiLeo, English and Creative Writing Teacher and Marlboro Central School District with a strong background in theatre, is described as having brought literature to life for his students.
The School of Education at New Paltz continues to serve as a regional leader in training reflective, passionate educators and supporting initiatives, organizations and policies that strengthen public education in the Hudson Valley and beyond.
More information about the School of Education is available online.
