Northport Teacher Recognized As 'Bright Light' By ASSET

NORTHPORT, NY — Leia DePalo, an instructional technology resource teacher in the Northport-East Northport School District, was recognized by the Association of Suffolk Supervisors for Educational Technologies (ASSET) as a "Bright Light" for her work integrating technology into the classroom, the school district announced.

DePalo works at both Ocean Avenue Elementary and Norwood Avenue Elementary in Northport. She works with staff and students across grades K-4, training teachers in one-on-one sessions and professional development workshops, developing techniques that minimize transition time, integrating technology into the school’s curriculum and helping staff master new technology.

"Since she has been with us, she has been so committed to integrating technology," Michael Genovese, principal of Norwood Avenue, said via news release. "To making sure that teachers have access to hardware, software, programs, and to making sure that the kids are enjoying working with those things."

Her professional development is primarily teacher-driven, as she provides "just in time"
support for teachers on topics relevant to their classroom instruction. DePalo is passionate
about teaching and learning, increasing her personal knowledge, creating useful resources, and
successfully supporting the district by integrating technology in the classroom, according to the school district.

"Leia is a true asset to our district, she brings so much to our department and really enriches it," Director of Technology Judy Proscia said.

DePalo was honored during a reception hosted by ASSET to recognize the accomplishments
of educators, administrators or other district personnel who help make integrating technology into the classroom a smooth process and excellent learning experience for students.