Write a commentThe Rural Schools Association of New York presented the honor to elementary school librarian Megan Cernaro after school on Friday, April 17th, in the Mexico Elementary School gymnasium.
Tarkan Ceng, superintendent of Jefferson Central Schools in the Hudson Valley, sat on the committee which chose this year’s winner. He spoke about the committee’s selection process in choosing this year’s winner and noted the importance of collaboration and relationships. “We especially looked for those teachers who are dedicated to seeking out growth, and who are always adapting to the evolving needs of students.”
David Little, the Executive Director of Rural Schools Association of NY, noted that the association considers teachers from the roughly half of NY districts which qualify as rural. He then announced the winner, Megan Cernaro, to cheers from the crowd.
In her acceptance speech, Cernaro told the crowd of teachers and students, “I feel incredibly lucky to be a part of your story and part of this amazing school community… this happens when you love what you do.”
Cernaro spoke with feeling about the professional relationships she has cherished over the course of her career and dedicated the award to her mentor, Lynn Rathbun. “Lynn lost her courageous battle with pancreatic cancer in September 2022. Her spirit, legacy, and profound impact on her students, colleagues, friends, and family will continue to carry on for years to come,” Cernaro said before presenting a plaque to Rathbun’s widow.
Dr. Donna Runner, superintendent of Mexico Academy and Central School District, congratulated and thanked Cernaro on behalf of the district. “I’m happy—thrilled—to put Mexico on the map because of yet another award.”
After the ceremony, Cernaro was instantly mobbed by some of her students for the cutest group hug we have seen in quite some time.
Congratulations, Mrs. Cernaro, on such a high honor!
