Rocky Point Teacher Honored With VFW Education Award

Press release from the Rocky Point School District:

Oct. 28, 2021

Rocky Point School High School social studies teacher Mr. Rich Acritelli has been honored with the 2020-2021 Smart/Maher VFW Citizenship Education Teacher Award at the high school level. He was presented with the award at the Oct. 18 board of education meeting. The award, inaugurated in 1999, annually recognizes classroom teachers for promoting citizenship education.

This award signifies Mr. Acritelli’s numerous contributions in support of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the many memorials, tributes and ceremonies he is instrumental in organizing for local veterans, according to Rocky Point High School Principal Mr. Jonathan Hart.

Mr. Hart further commended Mr. Acritelli’s efforts by noting his countless hours fundraising to further promote the school’s Wall of Honor as well as planning and preparing for the impactful ceremonies he spearheads for 9/11 and Veterans Day.

“In addition to Rich’s individual recognition, our building was recognized on the state level by the VFW for the Smart/Maher VFW Citizenship Education Teacher Award,” Mr. Hart said as he also commended the many staff members who contribute to Mr. Acritelli’s efforts in raising money and planning events. “This is an outstanding achievement for both Mr. Acritelli and our building.”

This press release was produced by the Rocky Point School District. The views expressed here are the author's own.