Crim Primary School would like to congratulate our Governor Educator of the Year Award Winner, Mrs. Dara Stivala, and our Educational Services Professional, Ms. Deborah Crisa.
Dara Stivala exemplifies everything that defines an outstanding educator. Dara is an experienced teacher who has taught as part of a co-teaching team and/or single teacher classroom for over 25 years. She has worked with students of varying ability levels and backgrounds, providing them with high, clear, consistent expectations, as well as nurturing care. Dara approaches each day with a calm and compassionate demeanor that instantly puts students at ease, and fosters a classroom environment where all children feel valued, respected, and capable of success. Her dedication reflects not only her belief in every child’s potential, but also her genuine love for teaching and learning. Despite her many talents and accomplishments, Dara remains humble and grounded. She is a true team player, always willing to collaborate, share ideas, and support her colleagues. She is someone who is genuine in her interactions with others. Beyond the classroom, Dara contributes her time and energy to numerous school committees and events, helping to enrich the overall student experience. She has played on the Crim School staff volleyball team and participates on Read Across America, STEAM Expo, Student Recognition, and Talent show committees. Dara is a role model for students and colleagues alike. Her dedication, kindness, integrity, and commitment to excellence make her truly deserving of this recognition.
Deb Crisa’s knowledge and expertise in the field of speech and language disorders is an asset to her students, their families, and the Crim community as a whole. As a Speech-Language Pathologist, Deb is an integral part of the Child Study Team. She evaluates students for communication disorders, develops and implements individualized therapy plans through direct service and collaboration with teachers and parents, provides consultation on classroom strategies, and conducts data analysis to monitor student progress and outcomes, all to help students with speech, language, and hearing impairments succeed in their education. Deb excels in making connections with all students and staff at Crim. She is always willing to provide strategies and brainstorm techniques that will help students, and is truly a team player. She devotes her time to training and mentoring graduate and post-graduate students to learn how to be amazing speech therapists, just like her. She is a valuable asset to teachers when seeking an instructional modification, accommodation, or an ear to listen and brainstorm solutions. Deb is not only an exceptionally skilled educator, she is a leader in the field of education who garners respect and admiration from students, parents, and colleagues. Deb is involved in many school-based committees including Parent University and Acceptance and Inclusivity. Deb deserves to be recognized as an exceptional Educational Services Professional.
We could not be more proud of both of these amazing educators and all that they do for our school community!