Great schools require the coordinated efforts of dedicated individuals serving in diverse roles to provide opportunities for students. CASDA's Annual Capital Region Education Awards Dinner recognizes excellence in all corners of the school community. Organizations throughout the area recognize excellence in specific areas of educational practice.

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On Friday, March 13, 2020 we were all faced with a new reality, the COVID-19 pandemic had officially arrived and by the week of Monday, March 16, 2020 everyone shifted to a remote learning environment. Consequently, CASDA’s Spring Awards Ceremonies were canceled.  Though some awards ceremonies were held virtually, after much deliberation CASDA decided not to hold its celebrations virtually. The intimacy and personal interactive nature of these celebrations historically have been the main attraction. Additionally, we felt educators didn’t need to add one more item to their overflowing to-do lists. So, we waited for things to get better.

 

We hoped this Spring would be different, and although there is a glimpse of light at the end of the tunnel with vaccinations on the rise, it remains in our opinion wise not to hold our celebrations in person. As a result, we thought our April Quarterly Newsletter would be a great place to recognize last year’s award winners and in turn, all educators for their perseverance, innovation, compassion and overall contributions to the lives of the children, families and communities they have served during these incredibly challenging times. 

 

From the CASDA Executive Committee and Team to all of you, congratulations and thank you for your dedication and service! We hope to see you at an in-person celebration next year!

 

2020-2021 Award Winners

 

Nelsin J. Armlin Award

Steliana Philip, Special Education and Literacy MS Program

State University of Albany

 

Counselor of the Year Award

Gretchen Lynch

Shenendehowa High School

 

NYSPHSAA, Section 2 Athletic Director of the Year Award

Chris Culnan

Shenendehowa Central School District

 

Greater Capital Region Principals Center Board, Principal of the Year Award

Rosalind Gaines-Harrell

Arbor Hill Elementary School, City School District Of Albany

 

Erica Ryan

Shatekon Elementary School, Shenendehowa Central School District

 

Antonietta Schroeder

Menands School Principal, Menands Union Free School District

 

Excellence in District Administrative Leadership Award

Jennifer Schwabrow, Director of Special Education

Canajoharie Central School District

 

Excellence in School Board Service

Ken Hoffman

Wells Central School

 

Excellence in School Psychology Award

Jennifer Delaney 

Maple Hill Jr/Sr High School

 

25 Years of School Service Award

Dr. Deborah K. Kundert, Associate Professor & Division Director

School of Educational Counseling and Psychology, State University of Albany

 

NSDC Cooperative Leadership Award

Dr. Jason Lane, Dean

School of Education, State University of Albany