A Fayetteville-Manlius School District teacher has been awarded the prestigious Empire State Excellence in Teaching Award.
Lisa Geraci-Civiletto, a math academic intervention services (AIS) teacher at Fayetteville Elementary School and a building student supervisor at Mott Road Elementary, is one of 54 New York state public school teachers—and one of seven in the Central New York region—to receive the honor. The award recognizes teachers for their impressive skill set as an educator and commitment to success for all of their students, according to a press release from Governor Kathy Hochul.
“Before, throughout and as we move past this pandemic, teachers have selflessly shown up for our kids and deserve our immense gratitude,” Hochul said. “It is impossible to recognize each one for their hard work and effort, but I am pleased to congratulate 54 outstanding educators for their commitment to their students. They embody the values and mindset that every educator should have, and I applaud them for inspiring thousands of children across our great state.”
The recipients were rewarded after an extensive application period in which several New York state professional education associations were involved in the selection process. Applicants were asked to illustrate how they:
- Exemplify the dedication, mission, skill, expertise and talent of outstanding teachers
- Inspire and motivate all children and makes learning exciting
- Make a difference in children’s lives
- Level the playing field and creates a climate for learning where every child can succeed
- Hold high expectations for every student and provide access to higher levels of learning for all learners
- Prepare children for a changing economic workforce and a lifelong journey of learning
- Are a continuous learner eager to pursue professional growth opportunities throughout their careers
“I am overwhelmed with gratitude to have been selected to receive an Empire State Excellence in Teaching Award,” Geraci-Civiletto said. “I am so honored to have my work recognized in this way by the State University of New York.”
Awardees receive a $5,000 stipend distributed by the State University of New York to apply toward professional learning opportunities to continue to develop their knowledge and skills in ways that further support student growth, according to the state.
Recipients are also provided with professional engagement opportunities to share insights on their successful teaching practices, curriculum and instruction and professional learning. They will also work with regional development leaders, university leaders in teacher education, policymakers and school leaders to advise them on trends in education.
Geraci-Civiletto has been an F-M educator for 19 years.