Teacher Appreciation Week Contest
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Daniel Casamassa has made a profound difference in the lives of his students, particularly those who struggled academically and faced developmental delays. Through his compassionate and supportive approach, he helps students rebuild confidence and discover a love of learning, and overcome past discouragement. Mr. Casamassa consistently goes above and beyond, dedicating personal time to help students succeed while promoting kindness, teamwork, and perseverance. He emphasizes that everyone learns at their own pace and celebrates student achievements through positive initiatives. His classroom motto, “persevere and never give up,” creates a motivating environment where students feel valued, supported, and proud of their progress.

Judith Goldfarb is a deeply committed educator who routinely puts students’ needs first. She ensures children receive appropriate support for their educational journeys. Beyond the classroom, she supports students and families through community outreach, including organizing an annual holiday gift-giving for children in need. A bilingual fourth-grade teacher, she earned a second degree to serve her students and delivers every lesson in two languages. Her dedication, compassion, and persistence positively shape students’ lives, earning her lasting admiration from families, colleagues, and former students.

Emily Gottschalk is an exceptional teacher known for her compassion, patience, and dedication to every student in her care. She demonstrates an unwavering commitment to providing individualized support, ensuring a nurturing and inclusive classroom environment. Despite managing a class of 21 students, she meets each child’s academic, emotional, and developmental needs while teaching life skills and independence. Ms. Gottschalk also leads successful fundraisers that benefit both her school and charitable causes. She actively involves families through constant communication, extending learning beyond the classroom. Her commitment, empathy, and advocacy make her an invaluable educator and colleague.

After losing a loved one to mental illness, Jaimie Miscioscia turned grief into purpose by cofounding the nonprofit organization PS I Love You Day, creating a national movement rooted in kindness, connection, and awareness. Mrs. Miscioscia brings this mission into schools, building safe spaces where students share feelings, practice gratitude, and strengthen emotional skills that support academic success. Through mentorship, family wellness events, and community collaborations, she models compassion, resilience, and service. Her innovative, research-driven approach blends social-emotional learning with academics, empowering students as leaders, and fostering a supportive, connected learning community across the entire school district.

For 20 years, Elizabeth Veilleux has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to students, families, and her school community. As a kindergarten teacher, she understands the critical importance of early childhood education and creates a nurturing, structured classroom where students build strong academic, social, and emotional foundations. Through differentiated instruction, creative lessons, and high expectations, Ms. Veilleux helps every child grow with confidence. Her dedication is reflected in her many roles, including summer schoolteacher, aide, advisor, and chaperone. Her passion for continuous learning, collaboration with families, and supportive presence makes her impact on students and the community truly invaluable.

Jenn Grasso-Moise is a middle school art educator whose work elevates student voice, cultural connection, and community engagement. She empowers students in a predominantly non-English-speaking community to express themselves with confidence through art, creating inclusive, brave, and inspiring learning environments. Ms. Grasso-Moise brings student artwork into public spaces through exhibitions, murals, competitions, and statewide initiatives, raising awareness for her unique school district. As a dedicated leader within NYSATA and beyond, she models lifelong learning, advocacy, and creative courage while expanding opportunities for students, educators, and the broader community.

Lindsay Guzzo, a sixth‑grade science teacher, is recognized for her passion, innovation, and leadership. She brings science to life through hands‑on, inquiry‑based learning that builds curiosity and critical thinking skills. Beyond the classroom, Ms. Guzzo shapes school culture as a Student Government advisor and active PTA member, leading initiatives that promote service, collaboration, and community engagement. Her dedication to continuous professional growth ensures her teaching remains dynamic and impactful. Through her tireless energy and commitment to students, she inspires confidence, responsibility, and a love of learning that extends well beyond the classroom.

Leck Nhotsoubanh, a middle school math teacher, is recognized for her exceptional dedication, creativity, and commitment to student success. With 28 years of experience, she demonstrates an unwavering commitment to student support by offering extra help during lunch and prep periods, creating interactive resources, and ensuring every student feels supported. Through her Math MakerSpace club, she brings math to life with hands‑on, real‑world projects that build business and technology skills. Her generosity, leadership, and tireless advocacy strengthen school culture and create a welcoming environment for students, families, and colleagues.

Susan Porter, a sixth‑grade teacher, is recognized for creating a classroom rooted in empathy, high expectations, and student confidence. Known as the heartbeat of her school, she builds strong relationships that allow students to feel safe, supported, and challenged. Through individualized support and growth‑focused assessment practices, she helps students overcome anxiety and see mistakes as opportunities to learn. Ms. Porter leads the inclusive Nesaquake Middle School Talent Show, uniting students, families, and staff in celebration of community. Her commitment to innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning makes a lasting impact on every student she serves.

Jon Stecker, a middle school math and science teacher, is celebrated for his lasting impact on students’ academic confidence and love of STEM. With nearly three decades of experience, he consistently demonstrates a strong commitment to student success by offering extra support, creating engaging, real‑world projects, and maintaining strong communication with families. Known for his approachable style and dedication to continuous learning. Mr. Stecker also coaches athletics and mentors students outside the classroom. His forward‑thinking approach, including responsibly introducing emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), helps prepare students for future success.

Chef Nancy Kombert, a culinary arts instructor, is recognized for her exceptional dedication to hands‑on learning and student success. With over 25 years of experience, she equips students with real‑world culinary and professional skills through immersive training, large‑scale catering events, and industry‑aligned instruction. Beyond the classroom, she mentors students, supports competitions and internships, and leads service initiatives that give back to the community. A committed leader and lifelong learner, Chef Kombert continually adapts her curriculum to reflect industry trends and emerging technologies, ensuring students graduate confident, skilled, and prepared for careers in the culinary field.

Christine Maniscalco, a Library Media Specialist, is recognized for transforming the school library into a dynamic, inclusive hub for learning, creativity, and connection. With 25 years of experience, she fosters a welcoming environment where students collaborate, explore technology, and feel supported. A leader in innovation, Ms. Maniscalco integrates makerspace tools, emerging technologies, and artificial intelligence (AI) into student learning while sharing her expertise through professional development and national conference presentations. Her collaborative spirit, commitment to continuous learning, and genuine care for students make her an invaluable resource and a powerful force in strengthening her school community.

Rahana Schmalacker, an English teacher, is recognized for her dedication to student growth, creativity, and real‑world learning. She brings literature to life by connecting students with the arts, launching a journalism elective, and strengthening the school newspaper to amplify student voices and community stories. Committed to continuous learning, Ms. Schmalacker actively participates in professional development and partners with organizations to expand opportunities for her students and colleagues. Despite limited resources, she consistently finds innovative ways to help students discover their passions, build confidence, and see the value of their experiences both in and beyond the classroom.

Jaclyn Tannazzo, a business educator, is recognized for her holistic, student‑centered approach that supports both academic success and personal well‑being. She builds strong, trusting relationships by prioritizing students’ emotional health, creating an environment where learning thrives. As advisor to the school’s Distributive Education Clubs of America (DECA) chapter, Ms. Tannazzo revitalized the program — nearly doubling participation and expanding real‑world, project‑based learning opportunities. Through meaningful connections with local businesses and hands‑on experiences, she inspires students to discover their passions and pursue future careers with confidence, integrity, and purpose.

Frank Verdone, a business educator, is recognized for transforming business education into a powerful foundation for 21st‑century success. Teaching courses in college-level accounting, financial literacy, and virtual enterprise, he equips students with real‑world skills in entrepreneurship, finance, and professional leadership. His hands‑on approach empowers students to develop business plans, innovative products, and confidence as future professionals. Mr. Verdone builds meaningful partnerships with local businesses, mentors students through clubs and internships, and coaches varsity golf. His dedication inspires students to discover their passions and prepare for life beyond high school.