Lisa Dooley, an ELA teacher at Bellport Middle School, has been awarded a first-place Teacher’s Appreciation Week grant from Teachers Federal Credit Union. She was selected from a pool of over 4,000 applicants.

Dooley was touted by TFCU as a “student advocate, both inside and outside the classroom.” She co-founded Boutique Week, which offers free attire for students' formal dances and moving-up ceremonies to ensure all students can participate in significant milestones. She also worked with students and staff to create a food waste program that was started to keep food out of the garbage. Food left over from the cafeteria is now distributed throughout the school day and before after-school sports, and weekly deliveries are sent to the Boys & Girls Club. Over 80 volunteers are now assisting with the initiative. Additionally, she collaborates and leads literacy read aloud events with Vicki Williams and Kreamer Street Elementary School.

“My philosophy for teaching has always been to connect with my students to foster opportunities for their development in more ways than just academics,” said Dooley. “I want them to know that I am not here just to teach them, but to also encourage them, to advocate for them, and to celebrate with them.”

She also thanks her colleagues for their support and inspiration. “I am so lucky to work with them every day,” she said.

The South Country School District congratulates Dooley on earning this TFCU grant.

Date Added: 6/17/2024