The Niskayuna Community Foundation surprised two Niskayuna High School teachers in their classrooms with the 22nd annual Murray Award for Excellence in Education. The awards were presented to math teacher Angela Netoskie and art teacher Jane Romm. Each awardee receives an engraved plaque and $2,500 for professional development.
The annual Murray Award was created in 2004 by Kathy Murray Crowe and Jeanne Murray Veasey, whose parents Edwards and Sally Murray were involved in the development of Niskayuna High School. They believed that providing the finest education required hiring the most creative, driven, and inspirational teachers. The award is also given in memory of Jeanne Murray Veasey, who has since passed away. Since 2003, the Murray Award has recognized 44 NHS educators for excellence with a total of $110,000 in award funds.
Angela Netoskie is appreciated by students, parents, and colleagues for the high level of energy and enthusiasm she brings to her classroom and school. Although she teaches challenging and difficult coursework, students say that Ms. Netoskie’s teaching style makes even the hardest math classes manageable for every learner. Clearly invested in her students’ education and valuing learning over grades, Ms. Netoskie often allows students to retake assessments. Her students also appreciate the open space she has created during free periods.
Jane Romm is known and respected for creating an inclusive and safe space for students. As a strong advocate for mental health awareness, Ms. Romm’s classroom is a model for making all students feel seen and appreciated. Ms. Romm is actively involved in the school’s National Art Society and advises students in preparing portfolios of their best work. Outside of school, Ms. Romm has coordinated projects that unite and beautify our community, such as the mural at the Niskayuna Co-op Market, which she designed, and students painted.
A committee representing students, parents, and peers chose the recipients, and the Niskayuna Community Foundation facilitated the selection process and award presentation. Criteria included outstanding classroom practices as well as a school presence that positively impacts students, colleagues and the community. At the request of the Murray family, this award is not competitive. It is intended to be an annual opportunity to select educators who represent the overall excellence of the high school staff and educational program.
ABOUT THE NISKAYUNA COMMUNITY FOUNDATION Founded in December 1999 NCF’s mission is to inspire generosity, encourage equity, and invest in local solutions by serving the Niskayuna Community through grantmaking, awarding of scholarships and supporting collaboration. NCF has awarded more than $550,000 in grants to organizations supporting children in crisis, senior safety, innovative education, and other programs that enrich lives and meet critical needs. NCF has also provided more than $200,000 in teacher awards and student scholarships. As an affiliate and geographic fund of the Community Foundation for the Greater Capital Region (CFGCR), NCF’s volunteer Board of Directors has the ability to direct resources to support the town and its residents while benefiting from CFGCR’s administrative support and pooled investment portfolio. The Community Foundation for the Greater Capital Region has worked to strengthen the Greater Capital Region through philanthropy since 1968. For more information about the Niskayuna Community Foundation, visit our website at https://www.niskayunacf.org/.