Three teachers and one paraprofessional have been honored by the Westfield High School community with awards for excellence. The annual awards, presented this year on May 26, are a result of nominations by students, staff and parents at the school. Christopher Tafelski, a science teacher at Westfield High School since 2003, is the recipient of the Distinguished Teacher of the Year award, established to annually recognize a teacher who, through both excellence in teaching and a demonstrated commitment to intellectual pursuits beyond the classroom, serves as a model and inspiration to the high school community to strive towards excellence. Mr. Tafelski also is the Head Coach of the Boys’ Cross Country, and Track & Field teams. Nominations on his behalf described his dedication and passion as an extraordinary Three teachers and one paraprofessional have been honored by the Westfield High School community with awards for excellence. The annual awards, presented this year on May 26, are a result of nominations by students, staff and parents at the school. Christopher Tafelski, a science teacher at Westfield High School since 2003, is the recipient of the Distinguished Teacher of the Year award, established to annually recognize a teacher who, through both excellence in teaching and a demonstrated commitment to intellectual pursuits beyond the classroom, serves as a model and inspiration to the high school community to strive towards excellence. Mr. Tafelski also is the Head Coach of the Boys’ Cross Country, and Track & Field teams. Nominations on his behalf described his dedication and passion as an extraordinary educator, coach and role model for his students.
Scott Rutherford is the recipient of the Above and Beyond Award, which was established to recognize a teacher or counselor who has made a difference in the life of a struggling child either socially, emotionally or academically. A Mathematics teacher at Westfield High School since 2005, who also is the Adviser of the National Honor Society, he was commended for being kind, extremely approachable and successful in impacting his students’ understanding and appreciation of Mathematics.
Christopher Vitale, WHS-PTSO Outstanding Teacher of the Year, has been an instrumental music teacher since 2011 at Westfield High School, where he is director of seven different bands, the percussion ensemble and the winter color guard. The PTSO award annually recognizes a teacher who is encouraging and motivating, is a good role model and shows respect for co-workers, students and parents. Mr. Vitale was described as being an inspiration to his students by demonstrating leadership skills, creativity, and enthusiasm for music.
Maria Martinez, Paraprofessional at Westfield High School, was honored with the Robert and Linda Foose Memorial Award, named for a former principal and teacher.
A dedicated Paraprofessional at Westfield High School for 13 years, Ms. Martinez was commended for her continued kindness and interest in encouraging students with individual and in classroom support. The awardees also was honored at a Westfield Board of Education meeting on Tuesday, June 14th, at 7:30 PM in Room 105 at 302 Elm Street.
(above) Westfield High School teaching awards were presented to (l-r) Scott Rutherford (Above and Beyond Award), Christopher Tafelski (Distinguished Teacher of the Year Award), Christopher Vitale (WHS-PTSO Outstanding Teacher of the Year Award), and Maria Martinez (Robert and Linda Foose Memorial Award).
