Congratulations to Maplewood’s Teacher of the Year Ms. Laura Zuhoski! She’s been part of the South Huntington family as a reading teacher (also known as a literary specialist) at the intermediate school since 2008. She works with students in grades three through five to build foundational literacy skills and confidence as learners. Maplewood principal Maria Colon says Ms. Zuhoski “understands that reading is not merely a subject but a foundational life skill, the key that unlocks countless opportunities. Her classroom is an engaging space where children, regardless of their current reading level, feel capable, respected, and motivated.”

 

Ms. Zuhoski’s colleagues call her ability to inspire struggling readers “remarkable” and say parents have shared stories of their children’s newfound enthusiasm for reading because of her commitment to them. One parent shared that she witnessed a “true transformation” in her third-grader because of Ms. Zuhoski’s “compassion, patience, and unwavering belief in his potential.” “[He] grew from a reluctant reader into a confident, motivated student who now sees himself as capable.” Ms. Zuhoski’s students think she’s kind and funny, and makes reading fun. One student said “I wanted to get better at finding the difference between a B and a D, and Ms. Zuhoski helped me do that.”

 

Because she stays current in her field of reading instruction and specializes in an array of reading techniques and programs, colleagues look for Ms. Zuhoski’s help when they’re pursuing certification in reading programs. She also acts as a mentor for graduate student teachers who want to become a literary specialist.

 

Ms. Zuhoski attended Dowling College where she earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education and Psychology, and a Master’s Degree in Literacy. She spoke with us about her teaching career and what being named Teacher of the Year means to her.

 

Q & A

 

What inspired you to become an educator?

I have always been drawn to working with children and helping them grow academically and emotionally. Becoming an educator felt like a natural way to make a meaningful difference. I was especially inspired by teachers who took the time to truly understand how students learn and who never gave up on them. Those educators shaped the way I approach my own teaching today.

 

What is your favorite part of the school day?

My favorite part of the school day is working in small groups with students and seeing those “lightbulb moments,” especially when a child begins to gain confidence as a reader.

 

What have your students taught YOU?
My students continually teach me the importance of patience, resilience, and meeting learners where they are. They remind me every day that growth looks different for everyone and that small successes matter.

 

How do you demonstrate your Wildcat Pride? What makes the South Huntington School District special to you?
I demonstrate my South Huntington pride through my commitment to my students and colleagues and by always striving to give my best to the district. South Huntington is special because of its strong sense of community, collaboration, and shared focus on supporting the whole child.

 

What does being named Teacher of the Year mean to you?
Being named Teacher of the Year is a tremendous honor. It means so much to be recognized for work that I truly love. This recognition reflects not only my efforts, but also the support of my colleagues, administrators, students, and families who make South Huntington such a special place to teach.

 

 

(this interview has been edited and condensed for clarity)
 

 

 

Maplewood principal, Ms. Maria Colon (right) and assistant principal, Ms. Stephanie Villanueva (left) join in congratulating their building’s Teacher of the Year, Ms. Laura Zuhoski (center).