Foundation Honoree: Susan Zuckerman, Speech-Language Pathologist at Mohansic

 speech-language pathologist Susan Zuckerman is one of six school district staff members who  at the annual Foundation for Excellence in Yorktown Education fundraiser next week. She has worked in Yorktown for more than 20 years with children of all grade levels. 

"[Zuckerman] listens attentively, asks appropriate questions and speaks to the students with respect and politeness," Mohansic principal Susan Berry said in nominating the woman. "Zuckerman uses every conversation as a teaching moment and little by little, the students begin to change their behavior for the better."

Patch caught up with Zuckerman to ask her about the honor she is receiving from the school district.

Patch: What do you enjoy most about your job?

Zuckerman: Many of the students that I work with have communication issues, usually in articulation and language development. I have always found it fascinating how children develop language. Children have a unique way of seeing things and it is through their verbal expression that they share their insights, concerns, and discoveries. I enjoy helping children develop their communication skills so they understand and learn to their potential.

Patch: What have been the highlights of your experience at Yorktown?

Zuckerman: Most of early elementary school revolves around explosive language development with the development of literacy skills. I have also helped children with their social and emotional growth by helping them understand their feelings, that their feelings matter, that their voice is to be heard. There is so much to learn.

Patch: Why do you think you were chosen as a representative from your school and what does this honor mean to you?

Zuckerman: This is quite an honor to have been selected from Mohansic School. We have a fabulous staff and it is a pleasure working with them every day.

Patch: What is the greatest accomplishment? Of what have you been a pioneer?

Zuckerman: Through various committees over the years, I have been involved with Mohansic’s character education programs. Many of the rewarding experiences have been through conflict management. During speech-language therapy groups, classroom events, bus concerns, and general school activities, children need guidance and support to develop a range of social skills.

What might seem “trivial” to an adult can be paramount to a child. Through communication, exploration of the event, and conversation, conflicts can be resolved, often with the development of a new friendship. This certainly involves communication with parents who hear their child’s version, and then I share the rest of the details. It is detective work.

Patch: Anything else you would like to add?

Zuckerman: For many years, I also had the position as Administrative Assistant, working closely with our principals. It was wonderful helping Mrs. Berry in her first year at Mohansic and her following years. I am also the leader of our Building Emergency Team and involved in the District Health and Safety Committee. It is very gratifying seeing our school respond quickly and comfortably to emergency situations.

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