June 2025 Making a Difference Award Recipients Honored

The Making a Difference Award recognizes the many examples of individual teachers, aides, drivers, safety, and other District staff who are making a difference in the lives of our children throughout our buildings. Today, Superintendent Dr. Larry Washington, along with Board of Education President Sharon Williams and Vice President Robin White, delivered the Making a Difference Award to each June recipient. 

Adele Hastings, Taft Elementary School

Adele is consistently the first to lend a helping hand, always going out of her way to brighten the days of those around her. Her impact extends throughout the school and into the wider community; she initiated Taft's first blood drive and served as an advisor for the Student Council. Adele was also instrumental in organizing previous Veteran's Day Luncheons at Taft, honoring the veterans in the community. She has also worked as the advisor of the Taft's Just Say No Club, helping students make smart choices and stand strong in the face of peer pressure.

Sheila Nardo, Little Britain Elementary School 

Mrs. Nardo brings excitement for learning that is felt in her classroom and throughout the building. She brings both joy and excellence into the school, and her presence makes a meaningful difference every day. Mrs. Nardo creates a classroom environment where enthusiasm for learning is contagious. Her zany, positive energy keeps students engaged and eager to participate. Students in adjacent classrooms want to join in on the fun!    

John Delgardo, Washingtonville High School

As both a high school security guard and the varsity football coach, Mr. Delgardo has made a profound impact on our school community. His presence is more than just supervisory, he leads by example. On and off the field, he is a mentor, role model, and motivator. He builds strong relationships with students, especially athletes, guiding them with discipline, encouragement, and genuine care. Whether he’s greeting students with a smile in the hallway or pushing them to be their best at practice, he brings out the potential in every student he interacts with. He holds students accountable, not through fear, but through respect and trust, earning their admiration while keeping the school environment safe and positive.

Greg Whittington, Washingtonville High School

This nominee, a devoted high school security guard, plays an important and often underappreciated role in shaping a safe, supportive, and respectful school environment. Known for working long hours, he is a constant presence in the building, morning, afternoon, and often after hours. His consistency offers a sense of security and stability for both students and staff. He takes the time to get to know students, offering encouragement, gentle guidance, and holding them accountable in a way that’s firm yet respectful. His calm demeanor, strong work ethic, and ability to build relationships make him a quiet force of leadership in the building.

Lisa Lawrence, Washingtonville High School 

Mrs. Lawrence has provided an immense amount of insight, guidance and support through all of our high school careers. She has shown how to navigate through hard life decisions and providing her guidance and the most thoughtful and truly caring way. She’s been amazing and has made this high school experience so much more enjoyable.