Students, Parents, Teachers Can Nominate at www.yonkersny.gov through March 1
Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano and the Yonkers Kiwanis Club in collaboration with the City of Yonkers and Yonkers Board of Education will present the 2024 Teacher of the Year Awards to three deserving members of the Yonkers Public Schools’ faculty. Students, parents, teachers, and administrators can begin submitting nominations today through March 1 at www.yonkersny.gov.
Established in 1956, the Teacher of the Year Award celebrates Yonkers teachers who further excellence in education. A committee comprised of members of the Yonkers Kiwanis Club and Trustees of the Board of Education selects the honorees.
“The outstanding work our teachers do in and out of the classroom deserves to be recognized,” said Mayor Spano. “Our teachers devote themselves to their students and guide them on an important journey that will impact the rest of their students’ lives. The partnership between the City, the Yonkers Kiwanis Club, and the Yonkers Board of Education celebrates the exceptional dedication and commitment of our everyday heroes in the classroom and, at times, even beyond the classroom.”
“It’s truly inspiring to witness the dedication and innovation so many of our teachers bring to the classrooms every day,” said Interim Superintendent of Schools Dr. Luís Rodriguez. “The Teacher of the Year Award is a testament to their unwavering commitment to excellence in education. We are proud to celebrate our educators who not only impart knowledge but also ignite a lifelong passion for learning in their students. Their contribution extends far beyond the classroom, shaping the future of our community and our world. These educators are the architects of tomorrow, molding young minds with care, creativity, and an unyielding dedication to their growth. Their tireless efforts, often unseen but always impactful, are what make our schools vibrant centers of learning and community development.”
Board of Education President Rev. Steve Lopez added, “The Teacher of the Year award is a shining beacon of recognition for the extraordinary educators who dedicate their lives to enlightening and empowering our students. It reflects the collective spirit of our community, a spirit that values education and the transformative impact it has on young minds. Every nomination is a story of passion, perseverance, and the profound influence a teacher can have. We are incredibly proud to honor the individuals who are not just teachers but also mentors, guides, and pillars of our community. They represent the best of us, embodying the values and aspirations we hold dear. Their unique contributions, whether in a bustling classroom or a quiet moment of guidance, are invaluable assets to our society. These awards celebrate not just the individuals but the enduring legacy they create through each student they inspire.”
Three Yonkers Public Schools teachers, representing the elementary, middle, and high school levels will be selected. Students, parents, teachers, and administrators are encouraged to nominate a teacher at www.yonkersny.gov. Eligibility requirements for selection as Teacher of the Year include employment as a teacher in the Yonkers Public Schools for at least five years; demonstration of dedication to the teaching; initiation of new, meaningful programs for either students, teachers, or parents, or being innovative in the use of existing programs, and display significant community involvement.
“The Yonkers Kiwanis Club is once again honored to sponsor the prestigious ‘Teacher of the Year’ award,” said Ralph J. Vasami, Yonkers Kiwanis President. “We are proud to have the opportunity to join the City of Yonkers and the Board of Education to honor these deserving Yonkers Public School teachers for their exceptional and dedicated service.”
Online nominations must be submitted by March 1 at 5 PM.
