I am honored and humbled to be chosen for this award. During my time at Morris Knolls High School, I have met so many people who have inspired and supported me in my academic pursuits. This is truly a wonderful place to work. Teaching is one of the most rewarding and challenging professions and I am grateful to have had the opportunity to work with such an outstanding faculty and student body. There are many people who I would like to thank and recognize, and without whom I would not be receiving this distinction:

• My first mentor at Morris Knolls was Bob Storm. He was a staunch supporter of the growth of our theatre program and more importantly, was my friend. After Bob, I was guided by the experience and leadership of Bill Cleffi and Sue Kanoff to whom I am very grateful.
• Several of my colleagues have a special place in my heart. These people are not only my friends, but my inspiration. They are incredible teachers who demonstrate to me on a daily basis the meaning of excellence. They are Andrew Kreckmann, Lorraine Hrobuchak, Joyce Wilson, Jeff Todd, Dan Benz, Kathy Pezak and Dan Schwartz.
• Thank you to all the parents who helped me year after year with the musicals and all our other theatrical productions. I could not have done it without you! I especially need to thank Robin Gershaw, Debbie Jeckell and Angela Magnusson.
• Of course I would not be receiving this award if it were not for my students. I have loved every minute in the classroom and continue to feel challenged by the rigors of teaching.  Building the theatre program at Knolls has truly been a labor of love. Through the musicals, I have gotten to know many of these students extremely well. We have shared successes, disappointments, laughter and tears. What they may not know is just how much they have affected my own life. The pride I feel when I see them on stage is greater than any feeling I have ever had before. There have been so many wonderful students who I have had the pleasure of knowing. But I would remiss if I did not publicly acknowledge several of them for the lasting impact they have made on me. They are: Julia Carey, Danielle Barchetto, Erin Ricca, Amanda Schreiner, Bobby Roufaeal, Steven McNamara, Pat Lavery, Matt Magnusson, Justine Magnusson, Danny Gershaw, Scott Schneider, Josh Furman, Kaitlin Manca, Deyna Jeckell, Liz Enoksen, Tom Provost, Jamie Parocco and Tina Witowsky. I will never forget you!
• Finally, I would like to thank my husband Brian and my parents, Allen and Alison Spatola. They have unconditionally loved me, supported me and believed in me. The have taught me the true meaning of work ethic, dedication and happiness and I am forever grateful to them for that.

 

“We must overcome the notion that we must be regular. It robs you of your chance to be extraordinary.”

            -Uta Hagen, actress