Congratulations to Walt Whitman’s Teacher of the Year, Mrs. Carrie Eastwood! Mrs. Eastwood has been an educator here in South Huntington for 22 years and has spent all of those years teaching at the high school. She is a special education math and science teacher who has taught in both self-contained and ICT (Integrated Co-Teaching) classes teaching Algebra, Earth Science and Living Environment. ICT classes are taught by two teachers, one general education teacher and one special education teacher working together to adapt instruction to ensure that all their students - including those with Individualized Education Plans (IEP) - can successfully learn the grade level curriculum. Walt Whitman principal John Murphy said, “Mrs. Eastwood fosters an environment in her classroom where every student can thrive.  She demonstrates a profound ability to connect with her students, understanding their unique needs and tailoring her instruction to ensure each one has the tools to succeed.”

Mrs. Eastwood’s connection to South Huntington is multi-generational. Her father attended school here, she went to school here (Class of 1997), and now her children attend school in the district. In fact, she credits her South Huntington teachers with inspiring her to go into the field of education. “Most specifically, my sixth grade teacher, Carol Kelly,” remembered Mrs. Eastwood.  “My mother was ill with cancer and Ms. Kelly’s support and compassion inspired me to want to become a teacher. My desire to become an educator stems from a deep sense of empathy and a desire to make a positive difference in the lives of others.”

Her colleagues say she makes a difference for both her students and colleagues. Those she works with describe her as gifted, passionate, caring, spirited, and a natural leader. They commend her “collaborative spirit” and view her as a mentor, advocate, and role model. In advocating for her students, Mrs. Eastwood believes that building closer relationships by talking with them about their life experiences, as well as their daily challenges, can have a real impact on their lives. “When I see that ‘aha’ moment in a student's eyes where they finally grasp a challenging concept, or they realize they can do something they previously thought was impossible, those are the moments that remind me why I love teaching and the incredible potential that lies within each and every student,” said Mrs. Eastwood. Her students also have plenty to teach her. She admits many of her high school students are able to teach her a lot more about technology than she currently knows.

Because the South Huntington School District holds such a special place in her family’s history, don’t be surprised to find this enthusiastic educator outside the classroom showing off her school spirit at Homecoming, school sporting events, Winter Wonderland, community parades cheering on the Walt Whitman Marching Band, and, of course, graduation. She’s also often leading the charge to organize and rally her students and colleagues for Halloween costumes, holiday hall decorating contests, and birthday celebrations. Additionally, Mrs. Eastwood is the driving force behind Wildcat Summer Science Camp where, since 2018, she’s been coming up with fun, innovative, and wacky ways to inspire kids in first through sixth grades to love science.   

 
She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Child Study from St. Joseph’s College; a Masters of Science in Education from Long Island University, CW Post; and NYS Permanent Certification in Elementary Education (PreK-6) and Special Education (Birth-21).   

For Mrs. Eastwood, the honor of being named Walt Whitman Teacher of the Year recognizes her dedication to education and also validates the passion she and her colleagues share for making a difference in the lives of students. “As a special education integrated co-teacher, I have had the opportunity and privilege to work alongside some incredible and talented teachers,” said Mrs. Eastwood. “The experiences I have had teaching with them have helped to shape my current teaching philosophy and practice. I share this honor with all the amazing and talented teachers I work with at WWHS.” 

Walt Whitman principal John Murphy (left) and assistant principal Jon Varlamos (right) join in congratulating the high school’s 2024-2025 Teacher of the Year.