Niskayuna Community Foundation recognizes two high school teachers for excellence in education
With video cameras rolling and digital cameras flashing, the surprised expressions of two Niskayuna High School teachers were captured as each was presented a Murray Award for Excellence in Education on May 31.
History teacher Jason Bach and art teacher Steve Honicki had just started their morning classes when High School Principal John Rickert, followed by a local TV news videographer, two local photojournalists, district administrators, two representatives of Student Congress and several members of the Niskayuna Community Foundation appeared in their classrooms with balloons and plaques announcing the good news.
The award, established in 2004, recognizes outstanding educators at the high school level who themselves are committed to continued learning in order to improve and enhance the education of their students.
Among the reasons Bach was selected is because of his ability to breathe life into American History making it more meaningful for his students — inspiring them to want to learn more. One reason Honicki, who teaches cinematography and photography, was chosen is his knack for helping students find their creative niche. Honicki said that it is an honor to teach in Niskayuna because of the district's best assets — its students. He added that every day he is pleasantly surprised by the creativity and talent of his students. “Even when I think it can’t get any better, it does,” he said.
As part of the Murray Excellence in Education award, each teacher will receive $2,500 to apply toward a staff development activity of their choice.
A selection committee of students, parents and teachers consider various criteria in choosing recipients, including outstanding classroom practices, professional contributions, past accomplishments, and a presence that inspires and positively influences students, colleagues and the community.
The Murray Award for Excellence in Education is administered by the Niskayuna Community Foundation, an affiliate of the Capital Region Community Foundation. It was initiated by the late Jeanne Murray Veasey and Kathy Murray Crowe in honor of their parents, Edwards B. and Sally Murray, who were instrumental in establishing Niskayuna High School.

(May 2007)