Luke Ferland, a Riverhead High School technology teacher who describes himself as a “former energy engineer, now technology teacher eager to transfer his knowledge of alternative energy and environmental stewardship to his students,” has been recognized for his excellence in teaching with two awards.
BOCES named him the 2017 Fred Podolski Leadership and Innovation in Technology “Most Innovative Use of Technology” award winner. This award is given to one classroom teacher who has demonstrated a creative, unique and resourceful use of technology in the classroom. According to a press release issued by the school district, nominees demonstrate a clear record of making a positive impact on their students’ achievement, the school, and the community through exemplary classroom teaching.
On October 26, Ferland will receive his award during the Long Island Technology Summit sponsored by Eastern Suffolk BOCES, Nassau BOCES, and Western Suffolk BOCES, in partnership with NYSCATE, an organization dedicated to transforming education through technology.
A special highlight of the Fred Podolski Leadership and Innovation in Technology Award is a creative presentation/video about the honoree from the perspective of students, colleagues and administrators. The goal is to give those in attendance at the summit an opportunity to see why Ferland was selected for this honor.
Ferland has also been selected as the Long Island Air Force Association “Teacher of the Year.” This program recognizes teachers for their accomplishments and achievements in exciting students in grades K through 12 about science, technology, engineering and math and preparing them to use and contribute to tomorrow’s technologies. The program is designed to award teachers who further excellence and make coming to class an adventure. The recipient receives a check for $250, a certificate of excellence, an AFA tote bag and a complimentary Civil Air Patrol Aerospace Education membership. This teacher is also submitted as an applicant for New York State Teacher of the Year.
He received that award last Saturday at the Long Island State Veterans Home during a medal ceremony for Vietnam Veterans. Ferland thanked the principal of Riverhead Middle School, Andrea Pekar, who nominated him for the award and “everyone for the support and assistance they have offered me, which has given me the tools that, no doubt, afforded me the ability to win this award. Although my name will be on the award, this is a win for all.”
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