Local woman chosen as NYC's Outstanding Educator of the Year

    Melissa Giannone, a Valley Stream resident who grew up in Malverne and teaches in Elmhurst, Queens, was named by the New York City Board of Education 2010 Outstanding Educator of the Year.
    The Valley Stream North High School and St. John's University graduate teaches fourth and fifth graders at the 51st Avenue Academy, where is also serves as the "Math Specialist." Giannone received the award on June 3 at a ceremony attended by NYC Mayor Michael Bloomberg and schools Chancellor Joel Klein.
    In a letter written by the 51st Avenue Academy principal, Dr. Digna Ersejn, and School
District 24 Superintendent Madelen Taub-Chan, Giannone is praised for having shown commitment to high-impact learning in her classrooms throughout her eight-year career. Giannone's "professionalism and dedication," read the letter, have contributed to the school's improved mathematics scores, which jumped for 49 percent in 2002-03 to 95 percent in 2008-09.
    The letter went on to compliment Giannone on her ability to making learning fun and interesting for the students, and for her enthusiasm and innovative teaching strategies, which make the classroom material relatable to reality.
    Giannone's parents, Jack and MaryAnn Sorrentino, of Malverne, said they're extremely proud of their daughter's achievements.