Elwood Student And Teacher Honored For "Outstanding Commitment"

ELWOOD, NY — A student and teacher were both recognized by the Elwood Board of Education at its meeting on Sept. 26, the school district announced.

Ava Cassidy-Genovese, a fifth grader at James H. Boyd Intermediate School, received a Shining Star award from the board. Also, Carla Weiss, a physical education teacher at Boyd, was honored for 25 years of outstanding devotion to the district.

Principal Dr. Denise Toscano introduced Ava to the board, praising her impeccable work ethic, compassion and maturity. Ava recently helped lead a tour of the school for incoming third graders, during which Superintendent Dr. Kenneth Bossert was highly impressed by her natural leadership skills and adult nature, according to Toscano.

"She serves as a model student for what excellence is," Toscano said.

Weiss was blushing from ear to ear as Toscano ran down several of her colleague’s most admirable traits. She pointed to Weiss’ ability to keep her students engaged and her meticulous attention to detail.

"She is a lifelong learner and a highly effective teacher," Toscano said. "Highly effective teachers understand that we, as learners, are never done. There is always more to learn and do."

David Shanahan, director of athletics and physical education, offered his own congratulatory remarks, referencing Weiss’ professionalism, respectful nature and hard work.