Honorary Life Awards
The West Irondequoit Central PTSA honored three people in a special ceremony on February 12 at Irondequoit High School. Dena Baccari, Chris Quinlan and Linda Verni each received the New York State PTA Honorary Life Award, given to those who have shown exceptional service to children and youth. It is the highest honor a PTSA can bestow upon its members.
Click here for a video of the ceremony
Dena Baccari teaches second grade at Southlawn School and has also worked as a special education teacher. Last year she was recognized by the West Irondequoit Teachers' Association with their Teaching with Excellence Award. Dena volunteered at her children's schools including their sports teams and theater productions as they grew through Briarwood, Rogers, Dake and Irondequoit High School. She is a tireless volunteer for the Irondequoit Community Cupboard, encouraging co-workers to join her to help others in our community. "It is Dena's giving spirit and infectious smile that impacts all she is in contact with, the community, teachers, parents and especially our children," said Denise Plukas. "She's always got her hand in the pot, willing to help out."
Chris Quinlan is the Service Learning Coordinator at Dake Junior High School. She has been an active volunteer at each of her children's schools, and has served as PTSA treasurer. A few years ago, Chris forged a relationship with School #6 in Rochester collecting books and school supplies. This holiday season, she has been involved with the Book and a Blanket program which supplies children with a new book and a fleece blanket. Chris has worked with her students collecting items for the Irondequoit Community Cupboard from schools throughout the district, teaching her students the value of serving their community. "You not only walk the walk, but you get others to support your initiatives to help the children of Rochester and the community of West Irondequoit, and that's true leadership," said Principal Tim Terranova.
Linda Verni is a teacher assistant at Colebrook School. "She is kind and nurturing as well as is a master of motivating students to achieve their goals. Linda is a wonderful listener and offers insightful and sensitive advice, in which she infuses just the right amount of wisdom and humor," wrote Rosemarie Kain in her nomination letter. Linda is also active in her church, serving on the Children and Education and the Worship Committees, teaching Sunday School, working in the crib room, playing in the bell choir and assisting with youth activities such as pageants and plays. Colebrook teacher Debra Buttler described Linda, "Linda's life is about always putting children, parents and teacher's lives first."