Dear Putnam Valley Community:
This morning in Albany, at a meeting of the New York State Board of Regents, our elementary school teacher Ms. Meaghan Boyle received the 2023 Better Beginnings Award.
The award, sponsored by the New York State Board of Regents, honors the life and career of Helen Bach Moss, a young New York State educator who passed away in 1988. Mrs. Moss touched the lives of many people; her career was distinguished by a genuine respect and love for children. She was ever caring toward students and their parents and acted as a worthy role model in all of her endeavors. This award recognizes early childhood education as the most effective investment for long-term educational success.
The nomination process for the Better Beginnings Award involves statements of support from students, parents, educators, and the local community and recognizes current teachers who are skilled at engaging young minds and developing nurturing relationships. For those lucky enough to work with Ms. Boyle, watch her in action, or see the results of her skill and devotion to children and families, we know these qualities describe Ms. Boyle perfectly.
In a letter of recommendation, Dr. Natalie Doherty wrote, “Meaghan Boyle is an exceptional educator and an inspiration to any and all who have the good fortune to be impacted by her skill, compassion, and love for children.” An excerpt from a parent recommendation letter further supports what we know to be true.
“Our 7-year-old son was diagnosed with ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder) when he was just 20 months old. He had numerous therapists, teachers, and other providers working towards helping him achieve his goals using a wide array of methods. My wife and I toured school after school, meeting with different program coordinators to try and find the best fit for our son and then we finally met Meaghan Boyle who is a Special Education teacher at the Putnam Valley Elementary School. Little did we know then that this amazing woman would change all our lives.
The amount of love, care, and dedication she provided to our son goes so far beyond what would be expected. Meaghan improved our child’s and our entire family’s quality of life in less than a year. Meaghan is our son’s Superhero and my entire family’s. She is one in a million!”
Dr. Doherty and Dr. Podesta, along with School Board President Barbara Parmly and former Board Trustee Guy Cohen were in attendance for the presentation of the award.
(Pictured below: Dr. Moss, Meaghan Boyle, Natalie Doherty, family of Dr. Moss, Dr. Podesta)
