Two Smithtown High School East teachers have been honored by the The Harvard Club of Long Island. Smithtown High School East Science teacher, Joe Rodichok is among the dozen of educators to be hand picked by the Harvard Club of LI to be given the 2017 Distinguished Teacher Award. Smithtown High School East Research Coordinator, Maria Zeitlin has been recognized as Harvard Club LI 2017 Distinguished Teacher. Zeitlin is among 40-60 teachers across Long Island, to be recognized.
There are three levels to the Harvard Club of LI’s Distinguished Teacher Program. The first level requires a former student, who is currently an undergraduate at Harvard University to nominate a teacher, who inspired them between the 7th and 12th grades. Out of the teachers who are recognized, about a dozen are selected to receive a Distinguished Teacher Award (2nd level). The twelve teachers are given the award during the “University Relations Lunch” held in Spring, where an eminent Harvard professor offers a classic lecture. One of those teachers (or more based on funds) are then selected as to receive a Distinguished Teacher Scholarship and are Named a Harvard Club of LI Fellow.
Research Coordinator, Maria Zeitlin was nominated for the award by a former student, who is currently attending the undergraduate program at Harvard University. The student is quoted as saying, “A mentor, who had a major impact on my life and academic career, Ms. Zeitlin spearheaded the research program that gave students, including me, the opportunity to compete in science competitions nationwide. Ms. Zeitlin created a family-like atmosphere in the classroom, demonstrating the importance of teamwork and also that it is important to have fun while learning.”
Smithtown High School East Science teacher, Joe Rodichok was nominated for the award by a former students who now attends the undergraduate program at Harvard University. Rodichok is among the twelve teachers across Long Island to be given this distinction.
“Mr. Rodichok is an outstanding teacher who motivates and challenges his students both inside and outside the classroom… His professionalism and dedication to teaching, particularly in the subject of physics, has made him an inspiration to his students. This is a well-deserved achievement for a remarkable professional who truly exemplifies the mission of the Smithtown Central School District.” – Smithtown Central School District Assistant Superintendent for Instruction, Jennifer Bradshaw
Joe Rodichok will be honored during a ceremony on April 30th, 2017 where he will have the chance to be named a Harvard Club of LI Fellow and receive a Scholarship award.