Briarcliff High School Teacher Named A New York State Educator of Excellence

PLEASANTVILLE-BRIARCLIFF MANOR, NY - From Briarcliff Manor School District: BMHS English Teacher Julia Fernandez was one of only seventeen educators across the state to be named a New York State Educator of Excellence by the New York State English Council (NYSEC). As described on their website, each year the NYSEC recognizes excellence in teaching by presenting Awards at its annual conference to English Language Arts educators nominated by their schools and then selected by the Council.

Jamie Mandel, English Department Coordinator at BMHS and her colleagues coordinated the award submission. She said, “Ms. Fernandez, a teacher of fifteen years, demonstrates expertise and a wide breadth of knowledge. She has a keen mind that asks the right question – the thought-provoking question that penetrates to the heart of the matter. She also infuses her classroom with her love of reading, be it the classics, the newest graphic novel, or the latest poetry. The classroom atmosphere she creates, challenging yet supportive, culminates in well-read, thoughtful, and critically aware students. She pushes our students, who are already high achieving, to new levels.

When asked how she felt about the award, Ms. Fernandez beamed and said, “Being nominated for New York State Educator of Excellence is an honor. Literature has always been an important aspect in my life, so becoming part of the English department at Briarcliff sixteen years ago was a gift. Discussing the art of the craft—and hopefully inspiring my students to appreciate the artistry—is a constant motivator. Every afternoon, I leave the building smiling over something that happened during my day. I am fortunate that I love what I do and that I am surrounded by supportive and passionate professionals.”

Image via Briarcliff High School