The Alma Exley Scholarship Program recognized the potential of Chastity Berrios Hernández to become an outstanding teacher when we honored her in 2017.
Now Educators for Excellence, a nonprofit that advocates for the teaching profession, has honored her as a Rising Star.
From left, Rachel Kwon, Chastity Berrios Hernàndez, and Donata Dziejma
Going Above and Beyond
The Rising Star Award recognizes educators who have gone above and beyond the call of duty for their students and in doing so have helped to cultivate a positive culture and sense of community within their schools.
Ms. Berrios is teaching in a third-grade, bilingual classroom at Clinton Avenue School in her hometown of New Haven, CT.
“This is an outstanding accomplishment, and we thank you for your work,” said Donata Dziejma, a special education teacher at Clinton Avenue School who nominated Ms. Berrios for the award.
Said Rachel Kwon of Educators for Excellence, “Your coworkers have witnessed firsthand the way you welcome each new student with open arms, ensuring they have everything they need to feel at home in their new learning environment.
“You listen to your students, encourage them, and stand as their unwavering advocate. You build relationships that foster trust, growth, and a sense of belonging–something that is truly life-changing for your students.
“Your impact extends far beyond your classroom. Co-teachers have seen former students seek you out in times of need, knowing that you will always make time for them, whether the challenge is academic or personal.
“Your deep connection with your students helps them navigate conflicts and hardships, and it is evident that your presence in their lives makes a lasting difference.”
Profound Effect on Students
Presenting Ms. Berrios with a $50 gift card, Ms. Kwon said, “As you continue your journey as an educator, we hope you recognize the profound effect you have on your students—not just in the moment but also for years to come.
“The lessons you teach, the kindness you show, and the confidence you instill in your students will stay with them long after they leave your classroom.”
Varied Accomplishments
In being named a Rising Star, Ms. Berrios was recognized for a variety of accomplishments, including:
- Under her guidance, her students won the Multilingual/Bilingual contest twice within her department’s initiative to celebrate multilingual learners.
- She revived Clinton Avenue School’s Parent Teacher Organization, which had been inactive since 2011.
- She established an after-school program to provide social and emotional activities for young learners.
- In addition, she has completed the ARCTEL program, an advanced, state-approved educator-preparation program granting her a cross-endorsement in bilingual education.
“I believe that effective teaching is essential to student success,” Ms. Berrios said. “As a first-generation university graduate, I understand the importance of education in transforming lives, and I strive to instill that value in my students.”
The Alma Exley Scholarship Program honored Ms. Berrios when she was a student at Fairfield University, where she earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees.
-0-