Six years into her education career in Westfield, high school Italian teacher Lauren Durante is being honored as one of the top teachers in Westfield.
Recognized by the Board of Education Tuesday night for winning the high school PTSO outstanding teacher of the year award, Durante wears several hats at the high school. In addition to her classroom duties, she is the advisor of the Italian Club, the co-advisor of the student council and an assistant field hockey coach.
During remarks describing her award, BOE President Julia Walker noted that Durante's students had consistent praise for the teacher and cited her as a positive role model who helps her students succeed.
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Durante noted she was humbled for receiving the award and did not expect the honor.
"I was so honored and surprised to receive this award," she said.
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Durante said she is honored that her students view her as a role model and she will continue to work hard on behalf of her students.
"To hear the quotes of my students, I am very moved," she said. "It means a lot that they would nominate me and call me a role model."
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