Two Goshen science teachers win statewide awards

Meredith Yatto Meredith Yatto, a grade seven Life Science teacher at the C. J. Hooker Middle School in Goshen, was recently named Outstanding New Science Teacher of the Southeastern Section of the Science Teachers Association of New York State. Yatto was nominated by her colleague and mentor, Patty Sherman, who is also the chairperson for the association. Criteria suggests that a nominee have only one or two years teaching experience, demonstrate exemplary science teaching, and exemplify the professional teacher in attitude, approach, diligence, dedication, and knowledge. A nominee should also contribute to the school program beyond the classroom and be involved in the community and professional organizations. Yatto received an undergraduate degree in biology from the University of Delaware, and a master’s degree in science and teaching from Saint Thomas Aquinas. This is her first year teaching at Goshen. “I’m extremely flattered that my mentor, Patty Sherman, thought highly enough of my teaching to nominate me for the award,” said Yatto. Yatto and her colleague Sheryl Lynch were honored at an awards ceremony on May 25 at Diana’s Restaurant in New Windsor. Sheryl Lynch GOSHEN — Sheryl Lynch, a kindergarten teacher at Scotchtown Avenue Elementary School in Goshen, was recently named Outstanding Science Teacher of the Southeastern Section of the Science Teachers Association of New York State. A former colleague, Midge Monat, a Goshen Central School District retiree and 2001 award winner, nominated Lynch. Criteria suggests that a nominee have at least five years teaching experience, demonstrate exemplary science teaching, and exemplify the professional teacher in attitude, approach, diligence, dedication, and knowledge. A nominee should also contribute to the school program beyond the classroom, and be involved in the community and professional organizations. Lynch received an undergraduate degree from Marymount University in Tarrytown, and a master’s degree from Mount Saint Mary College in Newburgh. She has been teaching for 13 years, with 10 of them at Goshen. Besides teaching kindergarten, Lynch has also taught second grade, where she was able to concentrate most on her science lessons. During the summer, Lynch raises monarch butterflies and brings the hobby into the classroom. She gives her students butterfly bushes to start their own butterfly garden, and tags and releases the butterflies. She also helps her students grow plants on Earth Day.