Logo for Pioneer Valley Excellence in Teaching Awards

Fifteen HPS educators have been nominated for a Pioneer Valley Excellence in Teaching Award this year, including:

  • Suhail Cantero, Sullivan School, Spanish teacher

  • Francesa Ceppetelli, Sullivan School, social studies teacher

  • Rebeca (Ana) Chaverri, Sullivan School, science teacher

  • Nicole Coughlin, Lawrence School, school adjustment counselor

  • Peter Duffy, Sullivan School, English teacher

  • Amber Dutton,  Morgan School, 4th grade teacher

  • Sheila Fallon, Holyoke High North Campus, English teacher

  • Nicole Fisher, Donahue School, math teacher

  • Christine Lopez, Metcalf School, English teacher

  • Axelmma Martinez, E.N. White School, kindergarten teacher

  • Suzanne Platanitis, McMahon School, kindergarten teacher

  • Mauricio Tobar, Metcalf School, school adjustment counselor

  • Merly Vega, Sullivan School, Spanish teacher

  • Michael Vera, Holyoke High School Dean Campus, auto collision teacher

  • Lina Savaria, Kelly School, 2nd grade teacher

“Congratulations to all 15 of our nominated educators. We celebrate each and every one of you for your accomplishments in the classroom,” said Superintendent Anthony Soto. All 15 nominees have been invited to a celebratory dinner in their honor on Thursday, February 29, at Wyckoff Country Club.

Six of those 15 will be surprised Friday morning, March 1, when Superintendent Soto knocks on their classroom doors to congratulate them for being selected as winners.

Which of the six will be selected? Check back here on the district website’s news section on Friday at 2 p.m. for a complete list.