Educators change the lives of millions of children every day, guiding them and making an impact extending beyond the walls of a classroom. While we appreciate educators all year, Teacher Appreciation Week is a special time to honor those who demonstrate their commitment to empowering students with the knowledge and power they will carry forever.
After receiving more than 4,000 votes from across the country, we are excited to announce the nine educators who will receive a 2024 Teacher Appreciation Week Contest classroom grant.
Congratulations to our winners! Your outstanding contribution to education is an inspiration! Best wishes as you continue to make a meaningful mark on future generations.
THE 2024 GRANT RECIPIENTS ARE…
Grades Pre-K - 5
1st Place Grades Pre-K - 5
Lisa Navarra
Twin Pines Elementary School – Brentwood, New York
Lisa Navarra, a UPK Behavior Specialist in the Brentwood community, has authored social-emotional books to help students overcome learning obstacles. Her efforts extend to facilitating parent workshops and professional learning experiences.
“My philosophy of education is that all children can grow and learn when adults have the information, resources, and skills to balance what they know and what children need. As educators, we share what we know so we can all learn and grow.”
2nd Place Grades Pre-K - 5
Leah Larson
Joseph A. Edgar Intermediate School – Rocky Point, New York
Leah Larson's 25-year dedication to fifth-grade teaching embodies inspiration and innovation. Her classroom, themed as a ship, symbolizes the journey of learning aboard the LarO’Mah 'Greatest Learning Ship of all Time'(GLSOAT).
“In my classroom, I aim to set up an environment where students feel loved, safe, encouraged to take risks, motivated, and supported on all levels of their journey through 5th grade! They are the passengers of the greatest learning ship of all time (The LarO’Mah), and I am their guide!”
3rd Place Grades Pre-K - 5
Alicia Ferrer
North Coleman Road Elementary – Centereach, NY
Alicia Ferrer prioritizes positive reinforcement and open communication, fostering a welcoming environment for students and parents. She accommodates diverse student needs, nurtures their self-worth, and organizes enriching field trips.
“My teaching philosophy is creating an environment where children can have fun while still learning. I want them to look forward to coming to school and feel accepted and comfortable, no matter their abilities.”
Grades 6 - 8
1st Place Grades 6 - 8
Lisa Dooley
Bellport Middle School – Bellport, NY
Lisa Dooley, an ELA teacher, is a student advocate, both inside and outside the classroom. She co-founded “Boutique Week”, offering free attire for students' formal dance and moving-up ceremony, ensuring all students can participate in this significant rite of passage as they transition to high school.
“My philosophy for teaching has always been to connect with my students to foster opportunities for their development in more ways than just academics. I want them to know that I am not here just to teach them, but that I am here to encourage them, to advocate for them, and to celebrate with them.”
2nd Place Grades 6 - 8
Victoria Hernandez
William Floyd Middle School – Shirley, New York
Victoria Hernandez, a middle school science teacher and distinguished New York State Master Teacher, embodies the highest standards of teaching excellence and leadership in the state. She serves as the driving force behind the school's Science Fiction Club, providing students with an outlet for their love of the genre.
“I run a very constructivist student-centered classroom. I strongly believe that students learn most effectively in an environment where they feel cared for, that their opinion matters, that there is mutual respect, and that they have control over their own learning.”
3rd Place Grades 6 - 8
Priscilla Olberding
West Middle School – Bay Shore, NY
Priscilla Olberding is an inspiration going beyond teaching to create a nurturing environment. She supports students facing challenges so they can thrive academically and emotionally. A standout example of Mrs. Olberding's devotion to student well-being is her initiative to secure donations for dresses and suits for the eighth-grade dance.
“I want students to welcome challenges, not hide or run away from a challenge because it builds character and determination. It is important for learners to have the skills to overcome obstacles and find a solution to a problem, creating an analytical thinker.”
Grades 9 - 12 Winners
1st Place Grades 9 - 12
Allison Fox
Riverhead High School – Riverhead, NY
Allison Fox is a dedicated teacher certified in both English Language Arts and English as a new language. Despite language barriers, she aids her teenage students by providing language instruction and creating a supportive social environment.
“My teaching philosophy is inspired by John Donne's poem "No Man Is an Island," which is about collaboration, interconnectedness, and what we owe one another. I believe in the power of community. By investing in the community and helping each other, we can all continue to grow and lead healthier lives.”
2nd Place Grades 9 - 12
Dr. Sequoyah Wharton
Brentwood High School – Brentwood, New York
Dr. Sequoyah Wharton spearheaded a digital literacy initiative, enhancing students' technological skills and organizing community workshops on media literacy, bridging the school with local families. His involvement in curriculum development workshops positively influenced district-wide teaching practices.
“My teaching philosophy centers around creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment where every student feels valued, empowered, and capable of success. Ultimately, I aim to inspire a love for learning and empower students to become confident, compassionate, and independent thinkers.”
3rd Place Grades 9 - 12
Michael Frazer
Valley Stream North High School – Franklin Square, New York
Michael Frazer, a science research teacher, fosters student exploration and scientific inquiry, empowering them to take ownership of their learning through research projects. These endeavors cultivate critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills and provide hands-on scientific experience.
“Central to my teaching philosophy is the belief that every student possesses a unique perspective and potential to contribute meaningfully to the field of science. By providing students with the tools, resources, and support they need to succeed, I hope to empower them to make meaningful contributions to the scientific community and society."
DISCLOSURE & CONTEST RULES
All nominations were submitted via teachersfcu.org. Nominees must be 18 years or older. Checks will be made payable to the schools of the winning teachers. Please allow up to 2 weeks for a check to be made payable to the selected schools. A W-9 form must be filled out by the winner's school and be placed on file with Teachers Federal Credit Union upon receipt of funds. Not limited to any state or school district. Winners selected will have their photo taken. Winners grant Teachers Federal Credit Union the right to use any images, name, voice/video, recordings, and any contest submissions in all forms of media, for all legal purposes, including but not limited to advertising, trade, or any commercial purpose through the world and in perpetuity. The contest is not applicable to Teachers employees.