Dutch Lane School Special Education teacher Jen Stanzione was recently named Long Island’s teacher of the month. Stanzione was nominated for KJOY radio station’s “Teacher of the Month” contest at the beginning of February. Residents all across Long Island contacted the station to nominate outstanding teachers who’ve made a difference in their lives or the lives of their children. After four finalists were selected, voting for the winner took place every day throughout February. Voting was open to all Long Islanders and networks of school communities reached out to encourage others to vote for their favorite teacher.
At the end of March, Stanzione was notified that she won the contest. She and her students were awarded gift certificates to Noodles & Co. Restaurant in Garden City. Stanzione, who has worked in the district since 2005, was first hired to start the autism program in Lee Avenue Elementary School, where she worked for five years. Stanzione is also a member of the Hicksville Congress of Teachers. She lives in East Islip with her husband Dave and their twin sons, Jonathan and Andrew and their rescue husky, Cooper.
“As a special education teacher it is extremely rewarding to watch my students grow both academically and socially. I am honored to be a part of their lives, and I am grateful for the trust and respect afforded to me by their parents,” said Stanzione.
Parents, former students, and colleagues all pulled together to spread the word about what an excellent teacher Stanzione is, how much she cares about all of her students, and how committed she is to providing them with a warm, safe, and stimulating school environment.
“I am deeply touched by the support of the Hicksville staff, students, and the greater community. I thank everyone for their past and continued support,” she said.
— From Mary Masterson, Hicksville Congress of Teachers
