Garden City Middle School sixth grade teacher Lauren Lavelle was honored as Essential Worker of the Year by Garden City New York Media in the Virtual Village Show: Garden City Winter Edition. The program featured remarks from Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kusum Sinha and Lavelle.
An 18-year member of the district’s staff, Lavelle taught fourth grade at Stratford School for 15 years and is currently in her third year of teaching English Language Arts and science at the middle school. Last September brought the addition of a new sixth grade STEAM course, for which she wrote the curriculum, to her schedule.
Lavelle helps to run the Positive Change Book Club, a virtual, districtwide initiative, in collaboration with teacher Tia Albig. She additionally coached field hockey for sixth grade intramurals and serves as the assistant varsity field hockey coach at Garden City High School.
“Lauren always goes above and beyond for her students, for her community and her colleagues,” Dr. Sinha said. “She has brought programs into the schools, works extremely hard and has a can-do attitude. We are very fortunate to have her in Garden City.”
Throughout the pandemic, Lavelle has provided noteworthy support to her students and colleagues. She maintained strong connections with students during last spring’s school closure and helped her fellow teachers navigate new forms of technology.
“This is an extraordinary and well-deserved honor that truly reflects what Lauren and our entire staff have done for children this year,” Garden City Middle School Principal Dr. Eric Nezowitz said.
Lavelle shared that this distinction reflects the teamwork and dedication of the entire school community. She also provided words of inspiration for her students.
“We do not go into our classrooms, close the door and become great teachers,” she said. “Instead, it’s when the door is open. To my students, remember, you are our future. Believe in yourself, believe in your potential, you can achieve whatever you set your mind to. Be kind to yourself during your journey, mistakes are just learning opportunities. Change your mindset. And remember, always be curious and always ask questions.”
In recognition of Lavelle’s accomplishments and leadership, Just Adventures Travel Services awarded her an all-expense-paid trip to Jamaica.
The show can be viewed at www.virtualvillageshow.com.
—Submitted by Garden City Public Schools
