Every year, the Yonkers Public Schools hold a “Teacher of the Year” ceremony in the spring, in partnership with the Yonkers Kiwanis Club, that recognized two outstanding educators. This year, after a school year of educating more than 28,000 YPS students during a pandemic, the decision was made to redefine the Teachers of the Year awards. This year, the honor is presented to all Yonkers Public Schools teachers. The Kiwanis Club of Yonkers presented banners to every school celebrating the dedication and service of all Yonkers teachers.
Board of Education President Rev. Steve Lopez stated, “This school year and since March 2020, all of our outstanding teachers demonstrated their commitment to our students and families by going above and beyond to keep their students learning every day. Therefore, it is fitting this year for the Trustees in partnership with the Kiwanis Club and the Mayor to celebrate and give a heartfelt thanks to the outstanding work of all Yonkers Public Schools teachers.”
Dr. Edwin M. Quezada, Superintendent of Schools noted, “During challenging times Yonkers teachers relentlessly persevere for the sake of their students. I have had the privilege of witnessing this on so many occasions. Our teachers are compassionate for the children and families we serve and this was more apparent throughout this year and last. In every classroom and conversation with teachers, their creativity, resourcefulness and collegial support was evident. Our teachers’ determination sustained Yonkers quality teaching and learning. More importantly, Yonkers teachers provided some stability for our students during very confusing times.”
“Our Yonkers Public School teachers continue to rise above what they were trained to do,” said Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano. “I applaud our teachers for continuously investing in the well-being of our students while caring about their future and happiness beyond the classroom. Thank you to our friends at Kiwanis for helping us spotlight our amazing teachers.”
The Yonkers Kiwanis Club is proud of our Public School teachers. We appreciate their dedication and service to the children in our district. Our “Teacher of The Year” program began back in 1956 to honor an excellent, outstanding educator and now we honor ALL teachers during the past year. Judy Bartunek, Yonkers Kiwanis President
“When faced with the impossible reality of educating students in a virtual setting when the system was not set up for it and the digital divide was so prevalent, teachers made the impossible possible. We are so proud of our Yonkers Public School teachers,” added Samantha Rosado-Ciriello, President, Yonkers Federation of Teachers. “They are superheroes!”
For sixty-six years the Kiwanis Club of Yonkers, in cooperation with the Yonkers Board of Education, has given recognition to public school teachers who have demonstrated excellence in teaching, made significant contributions to the school community and engaged in activities that have led to student growth and development. Historically, one teacher who meets these criteria is selected each year from a slate of nominees to be inducted into the Yonkers Teacher Hall of Fame. In 2015, the Mayor of the City of Yonkers joined the tribute awarding annual recognitions to outstanding elementary and secondary Yonkers teachers.
