TURNERS FALLS — Franklin County Technical School Special Education Teacher Lynne Paju is receiving this year’s Pioneer Valley Excellence in Teaching Award from the Harold Grinspoon Charitable Foundation.
The Pioneer Valley Excellence in Teaching Award recognizes exceptional public and parochial school teachers in the region for their dedication to enhancing education. The awards are presented based on excellence in teaching, the teacher’s professional development, attendance, and enthusiasm for teaching and working with children.
“There are so many talented and excellent teachers at this school,” said Paju, who has been teaching at FCTS for three years. “It’s nice to get the acknowledgement. I’m honored. I’ll try to be worthy of the award.”
Paju was nominated for the award by the FCTS administrative team. Principal Shawn Rickan said the administrators picked Paju because she is “reliable, responsible and has a high enthusiasm for the profession.”
“I love the kids here,” Paju said. “I really care about the wellbeing of the students. I try to find a way with each student to know how they learn best and help them feel good about themselves. I try to help them to become happy members of society. I love teaching and I’m learning every day.”
A native of Colonie, N.Y., Paju began teaching at FCTS in the fall of 2013. She is a resident of Northampton.
Paju earned her bachelor’s degree from SUNY Plattsburgh, Outdoor Leadership Certification from Greenfield Community College, and her master’s degree from Fitchburg State College.
Paju and other recipients of the Pioneer Valley Excellence in Teaching Award will be honored at a banquet on April 28 at The Log Cabin in Holyoke.