Three Liberty Central School District teachers were honored by the Board of Education during the Dec. 12 meeting. Earning Excellence in Service awards were kindergarten teacher Kristen Joyce, Middle School TESOL teacher Olga Feliciano and High School English Teacher Michele Clark.

Kristen Joyce

Joyce was praised for her contributions to several Elementary School events.

“She has been working tirelessly to make our school a better place for our kids,” her nomination read. “From the Veteran’s Day assembly, to the children’s toy drive/angel tree for needy families this upcoming holiday; all have been successful due to her hard work!”

Olga Feliciano

Feliciano’s commitment to helping students whose first language is not English was noted in her nomination.

“Olga’s dedication and unwavering commitment to working with our ESL students across four grade levels is commendable. Being the only ESL teacher in the building is a challenge she handles gracefully. Her exceptional efforts have not gone unnoticed,” her nomination read.

She cares about her students, her nominator said.

“Her work with ESL students transcends the boundaries of a conventional teaching role. She has consistently gone above and beyond, putting in extra hours and demonstrating perseverance to ensure that our ESL students receive the best education and support possible,” the nomination said. “Her passion for teaching and her genuine care for our students is evident in every interaction she has with them. The authentic relationships she has developed with our students are seen daily as they seek her out for assistance with schedules, lockers, and for many, adjusting to a new school environment in a new country. Liberty is lucky to have a teacher of Olga’s caliber.”

Michele Clark

Clark is working hard to make her department a comfortable and organized place to work, her nominator said.

“Michele has been working hard to clean up the English department office in her free time. Her efforts are a huge help to those of us that use the space,” the nomination said. “Additionally, she makes Liberty High School a wonderful place to work by checking in on her colleagues in the mornings and/or afternoons and offering help where she can. She is a hard worker and admirable educator.”

Each month, staff members nominate others they believe are going above and beyond, be it a single act of excellence or kindness or a continuous work ethic.

We congratulate these teachers on their awards.