Cold Spring Harbor School Librarian Wins Prestigious Award

COLD SPRING HARBOR, NY — Erica Fraiberg, the library media specialist at West Side Elementary School, received the prestigious Fred Podolski Leadership and Innovation in Technology Award on Oct. 20, the Cold Spring Harbor School District announced.

The award was named in memory of Fred Podolski, the longtime director of the Nassau BOCES curriculum, instruction and technology.

The award is presented to one teacher who has demonstrated outstanding technology innovation, vision and leadership in the area of technology usage. Podolski was a firm believer on the impact technology could have on student learning. He also founded the Long Island Technology and Education Summit.

The award was bestowed upon Fraiberg to recognize her demonstration of creative, unique and resourceful use of technology in the classroom. Fraiberg is known for making a positive impact on her students through exemplary classroom teaching and has spearheaded building level programs to engage students, staff and the community, according to the school district.

"I am honored to receive this award that reflects my love of technology and teaching every day," Fraiberg said in a news release. "I am lucky to work with great colleagues and students who humor my crazy ideas."

Fraiberg was joined by her colleagues at the ceremony, including the district's Executive Director of Technology Joseph Monastero, Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum Genevieve LaGattuta, and Superintendent Jill M. Gierasch.

A video of Fraiberg’s achievements was shared along with remarks that included accolades such as," she is a consummate library media specialist professional who is accessible, organized, knowledgeable and a leader in her field," "She has very strong communication skills, and her interactions with students, staff and community members are clear, informative, and helpful," and "She provides a level of accessibility and comfort when assisting people, which allows them to operate in a risk-free zone creating a positive learning environment where students feel comfortable asking questions and participating in class discussions."