Farm Hill Elementary

Meet Amanda Martinez, the Principal of Spencer School whose leadership creates a thriving educational community for all! Nominated by an anonymous colleague, Mrs. Martinez demonstrates how outstanding school leadership prioritizes relationships, recognition, and genuine care for every member of the school family. "Mrs. Martinez is an exceptional educational leader who always puts children first, knows how to appreciate her staff and builds a positive climate and culture where parents and community members feel welcomed!" shares her nominator. This comprehensive approach to leadership ensures that Spencer School operates as a true community where everyone feels valued and supported. Her ability to "always put children first" while simultaneously building up her staff creates an environment where educators feel empowered to do their best work. When teachers feel appreciated and supported, that positive energy flows directly to students and families. The welcoming climate Mrs. Martinez has cultivated extends beyond the school walls, ensuring that parents and community members feel like true partners in the educational process. This inclusive approach strengthens the entire Spencer School community. We're incredibly fortunate to have principals like Mrs. Martinez whose vision of educational leadership encompasses not just academic achievement, but also the creation of spaces where everyone feels they belong and can succeed! ***** Do you know an MPS employee who deserves recognition? Use the link in our bio or here to submit a nomination: https://tinyurl.com/MPSComms #MPS4ALL #MPSFutureMakers

3 days ago, Middletown Public Schools

Meet Dipti Post, a dedicated Special Education Teacher at Moody Elementary School whose expertise and compassion are making a profound difference for students with complex learning needs! Nominated by parent Mark Jimenez, Ms. Post exemplifies the specialized skill and genuine care that exceptional special education requires. "Ms. Post has worked significantly well with our daughter who has level 3 autism, intellectual disability, ADHD and language delay," shares Mark. "She genuinely provided her expertise in teaching our daughter with complex needs." Working with students who have multiple diagnoses requires exceptional knowledge, patience, and creativity – qualities that Ms. Post brings to her classroom every day. Her ability to understand and address each child's unique challenges while celebrating their individual strengths creates learning opportunities that might not otherwise exist. "She was able to navigate our daughter's challenges to make an impact on our daughter's education," Mark adds. This ability to see beyond disabilities to discover each child's potential represents the very best of special education practice. We're incredibly grateful for educators like Ms. Post whose specialized expertise and unshakeable dedication ensure that every student, regardless of their learning differences, has the opportunity to grow, learn, and succeed! ***** Do you know an MPS employee who deserves recognition? Use the link in our bio or here to submit a nomination: https://tinyurl.com/MPSComms #MPS4ALL #MPSFutureMakers

4 days ago, Middletown Public Schools

Meet Melina Metaxas, the exceptional Biology and Ocean Teacher at Middletown High School who's creating profound connections with her students both in and out of the classroom. Nominated by student Jillian Segal, Ms. Metaxas exemplifies how great teaching combines academic excellence with genuine care for students as individuals. "She is the kindest person on earth. She is my one trusted adult in the school system that I know I can go to with any problems or just simply ask her for advice," shares Jillian. This trust speaks to the safe, supportive environment Ms. Metaxas creates where students feel valued and heard. Beyond being a trusted mentor, she's also "an exceptional teacher who knows how to keep her students focused and interested," bringing passion and engagement to the sciences that inspires young minds to explore the natural world. When Ms. Metaxas learned of her nomination, her response revealed her dedication: "Wow, what a kind gesture and a great way to kick off teacher appreciation week! It's crazy to think that I'm almost done with my 4th year of teaching and 7th season coaching crew." We're incredibly fortunate to have educators like Ms. Metaxas who understand that teaching is about so much more than curriculum; it's about being that trusted adult who helps students navigate both academic challenges and life itself. ***** Do you know an MPS employee who deserves recognition? Use the link in our bio or here to submit a nomination: https://tinyurl.com/MPSComms #MPS4ALL #MPSFutureMakers

5 days ago, Middletown Public Schools

Meet Aaron Sweeney, the exceptional Science Teacher at Beman Middle School whose expertise and compassion create the perfect environment for middle school learning! Nominated by a community member who chose to remain anonymous, Mr. Sweeney exemplifies how veteran educators blend deep subject knowledge with genuine understanding of their students. "Mr. Sweeney is an exceptional science teacher. He is a veteran teacher that is well versed in the science curriculum and social emotional learning for middle school students," shares his nominator. This combination of academic expertise and emotional intelligence is particularly valuable during the middle school years when students are navigating both complex scientific concepts and personal growth. His approach to teaching demonstrates true educational artistry, being both "knowledgeable and personable" while always meeting "the students where they are." This ability to adapt instruction to individual student needs while maintaining high academic standards creates an environment where all learners can thrive. As his nominator notes, Mr. Sweeney truly is "an asset to Beman Middle School," bringing years of experience and wisdom to support both student learning and the broader school community. We're incredibly fortunate to have veteran educators like Mr. Sweeney whose dedication and skill continue to inspire young scientists and lifelong learners! ***** Do you know an MPS employee who deserves recognition? Use the link in our bio or here to submit a nomination: https://tinyurl.com/MPSComms #MPS4ALL #MPSFutureMakers

5 days ago, Middletown Public Schools

Meet Denise Conley, a dedicated second grade teacher at Wesley Elementary School who's transforming student experiences through creativity and compassion! Nominated by parent Stephen DiCarlo, Mrs. Conley demonstrates how exceptional teaching addresses not just academic growth, but also the whole child. "Mrs. Conley has done so many great things throughout the year to give her students the best education!" shares Stephen. "She is constantly coming up with creative ideas such as inviting mystery readers to come in and read to the children on national reading week." Her approach extends beyond academics. Mrs. Conley understands that true learning happens when students feel emotionally supported and valued. This holistic perspective has made a profound difference for Mr. DiCarlo’s family: "My son struggled in his Kindergarten and 1st Grade years but due to her hard work he is now excelling and this wouldn't have happened without her." Mrs. Conley's ability to recognize each child's unique needs and provide both educational excellence and social-emotional support exemplifies the transformative power of dedicated teaching. Her classroom is a place where students find their confidence. We're fortunate to have educators like Mrs. Conley whose creativity and care create lasting impact on our students' educational journeys! ***** Do you know an MPS employee who deserves recognition? Use the link in our bio or here to submit a nomination: https://tinyurl.com/MPSComms #MPS4ALL #MPSFutureMakers

6 days ago, Middletown Public Schools

Meet Judy David, a beloved Kindergarten Teacher at Wesley Elementary School whose impact extends far beyond the classroom walls. Nominated by a parent who chose to remain anonymous, Mrs. David represents the profound influence that exceptional early childhood educators have on young lives. "Great teacher always remembered by all students no matter what age or where they go," shares her nominator, a simple yet powerful testament to the lasting impression Mrs. David makes on her students. In kindergarten, children take their first steps into formal education, and Mrs. David ensures those steps are filled with wonder, support, and discovery. The fact that her students carry memories of her "no matter what age or where they go" speaks to the special bond she creates with the students who enter her classroom. Early educational experiences shape how children view learning for years to come. Mrs. David's ability to create positive, memorable moments sets the foundation for academic success and a lifelong love of learning. We're grateful for educators, like Mrs. David, who understand that kindergarten is about more than academics; it's about creating a safe, nurturing environment where children's educational journey begins with joy and confidence! ***** Do you know an MPS employee who deserves recognition? Use the link in our bio or here to submit a nomination: https://tinyurl.com/MPSComms #MPS4ALL #MPSFutureMakers

11 days ago, Middletown Public Schools

Meet Yvonne Daniels, Supervisor of Secondary Mathematics (Grades 6-12) for Middletown Public Schools, whose leadership is transforming mathematics education for students across our district. Nominated by Kate Oslan, a teacher at Beman Middle School, Ms. Daniels exemplifies how strong instructional leadership creates opportunities for both students and educators to thrive. Ms. Daniels was recently named the 2025 recipient of the prestigious Mari Muri Award from ATOMIC (Associated Teachers of Mathematics in Connecticut). This exceptional honor celebrates her outstanding contributions toward equity in education for all students, recognizing her as a passionate advocate for student success and an innovator in mathematics education. Her supportive approach with both students and teachers creates an environment where mathematical thinking can flourish, reflecting the very qualities that made Mari Muri a legendary figure in Connecticut's mathematics education community. We're incredibly proud of Ms. Daniels' achievement and grateful for her continued dedication to advancing mathematics education in Middletown Public Schools. ***** Do you know an MPS employee who deserves recognition? Use the link in our bio or here to submit a nomination: https://tinyurl.com/MPSComms #MPS4ALL #MPSFutureMakers

11 days ago, Middletown Public Schools

Meet Kaitlynn Styles, a remarkable Psychology Teacher at Middletown High School whose impact extends far beyond academic instruction! Nominated by student Syeda Hussaini, Ms. Styles exemplifies how powerful the teacher-student relationship can be when built on genuine care and dedication. "Ms. Styles has truly transformed my life for the better," shares Syeda. "She has always been there for me, offering invaluable advice and unwavering support. Whether I needed help with schoolwork or personal issues, she was a person I could always turn to." Through her psychology teaching, Ms. Styles doesn't just share academic knowledge—she models the very principles of empathy, active listening, and meaningful connection that are central to the discipline. This authentic approach has made her "an incredible role model" who helps students grow both intellectually and personally. "She has not only helped me academically but also guided me in becoming a better person," Syeda adds. "Ms. Styles' impact on my life this school year is something I will always cherish." We're profoundly grateful for educators like Ms. Styles who understand that the most lasting lessons often happen in those moments of genuine human connection! ***** Do you know an MPS employee who deserves recognition? Use the link in our bio or here to submit a nomination: https://tinyurl.com/MPSComms #MPS4ALL #MPSFutureMakers