• Nicholas S. LaCorte – Peterstown School No. 3

Teacher of the Year

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Ms. Meghan Carroll

Music Teacher

I believe music is a great influencer and plays a valuable role in our lives. Music education is the path to connecting one's inner expression and awareness of our basic need to create as humans. Being able to assist students in developing their sense of how they interact with the world through music is the biggest blessing of my job and why I chose the profession of music educator.

I truly believe through a strong theoretical foundation, practice, and dedication, anything can be achieved by our students! The general music classroom can be developed to assist with group AND individualized student-centered needs. As a music educator, it is my responsibility to create and provide a positive learning environment where students can flourish into creative and caring individuals and develop a lifelong love of music in varied capacities.

Educational Service Professional of the Year

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Ms. Jennifer Montes De Oca

Speech/ Language Specialist

I have always been captivated by how words shape our world and connect us unexpectedly. That fascination led me to become a Speech-Language Pathologist, where I have the privilege of helping people unlock the power of their voices. I wanted a career that allowed me to make a meaningful impact on people's lives. Speech therapy enables me to help individuals improve their communication skills. Still, the most fulfilling part is its positive effect on their families. Communication is at the heart of connection, and being able to play a role in strengthening those bonds is something I never take for granted.

As a bilingual Spanish-speaking speech-language pathologist, I am incredibly grateful to serve a diverse community and provide support in a culturally inclusive and meaningful way. I genuinely enjoy working with children and their families because speech therapy is not just about words; it is about building confidence, relationships, and the ability to express ourselves. Every child I work with has a unique story, and these stories make our work so meaningful and impactful. I have the privilege of witnessing significant milestones that bring joy and inspiration.

As a Speech-Language Specialist (SLS), my role is to help students find their voice both in the classroom and in their daily lives. I work closely with teachers, parents, and other professionals to develop personalized plans that support their growth. As a member of the Child Study Team, I evaluate students when needed and create an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) that includes personalized goals. I focus on helping students improve their speech sounds (articulation), language comprehension, and social communication skills through engaging and practical therapy sessions. I teach the students strategies that can help them thrive both in the classroom and at home. As they grow and progress, I adjust my approach to make sure they stay confident and keep moving forward. Collaboration is at the heart of what I do. By partnering with families and educators, I help create an environment where every child feels heard, understood, and empowered.