October 2024 Making a Difference Award recipients honored

The Making a Difference Awards recognize the many examples of individual teachers, aides, drivers, safety, and other District staff that are making a difference in the lives of our children throughout our buildings. On November 1, 2024 Superintendent Dr. Larry Washington, Board of Education President Sharon Williams, Vice President Robin White, Trustees Jim Overbey and Brian T. Strommer, delivered the Making a Difference Awards to each of the October recipients. 

Patricia O'Hara- Taft Elementary School
Mrs. O’Hara is an exceptional special education teacher who genuinely loves and cares for her students. She works tirelessly to teach them as much independence as possible, understanding that every child is full of potential. Mrs. O’Hara collaborates closely with parents, ensuring that the learning experience is a joint effort between home and school. Her students adore her, and her teaching methods create a warm, nurturing environment where they can thrive.The impact of Mrs. O’Hara’s dedication has been profound, and we believe she deserves recognition for her relentless efforts, passion, and positive influence on her students' lives. Her compassionate and individualized approach makes a lasting difference, helping children gain skills that foster independence and confidence.

Laura Donnelly- Taft Elementary School
In just a short time, Ms. Donnelly has motivated and inspired my son to become an independent reader. Since the start of the school year, Lawrence's reading skills have improved dramatically through the explicit, direct and individualized education he is receiving from her. Ms. Donnelly is an exceptional teacher who strives to reach each individual child in her classroom by getting to know their strengths and weaknesses and implementing lessons that meet the diverse needs of her students. In only a month and a half, Ms. Donnelly has created an enthusiastic reader out of my son. She is an asset to Taft and the Special Education Department of Washingtonville CSD.

Ty Clarke- Washingtonville High School
Ty has been instrumental in the ongoing project to upgrade and expand our security camera and door access system across the district. He identified which existing cameras needed upgrades and worked with different departments and building leaders to determine the best locations for new cameras. Ty is also in regular communication with the vendors handling the installation of new cameras, cabling, door controllers, and programming the system. Even now, he continues to oversee these efforts, ensuring that everything runs smoothly during this transition. Ty’s efforts have already made a lasting impact, and his continued commitment will only make things better.

Kevin Dugan- Washingtonville High School
Kevin is always helping the students but he’s especially great with the special needs students. He brings a smile to all the kids faces, goes out of his way to help and guide them.When kids need someone to talk to they look for Kevin, they trust him and that’s so important in today’s world.Kevin is always great with the kids. He doesn’t just watch over them he’s a safe place for them to go when they need someone to talk to or even someone to keep them company at lunch. He goes above and beyond his job duties every day.