The Betty McKnight Legacy Award
In 2022, the Trumansburg Education Foundation created the Betty McKnight Legacy Award in honor of late Trumansburg community member Betty McKnight, Ph.D. This award celebrates a member of our community whose values reflect Betty's dedication to hands-on learning and empowering students to use education to contribute to their community.
About Betty McKnight
Betty was a beloved and active resident of Trumansburg, NY. She earned a doctorate in Science Education from Cornell University, and dedicated her life's work to advocating for teachers and engaging students in hands-on learning. As an educator, Betty believed that helping students gain an understanding of math and science concepts early on leads to confident students and good citizens of the planet. Her work was directed at experiential education, using direct experience and reflection to help students solve real-world problems in their communities. Thanks to her incredible gift to the Foundation of $208,584.00 in 2020, Betty will continue to have an impact on educational opportunities in our community for years to come.
NOMINATIONS
Candidates are nominated by members of the community in the spring using an online application form. Nominations will be accepted until Friday, May 31, 2024. A recipient will be chosen in a blind vote by the Trumansburg Education Foundation board of directors and an award presented before the end of the school year. All candidates for this award receive honorable mention, recognition, and gratitude for their outstanding work and impact on our community.
The Award
The Betty McKnight Legacy Award winner is presented with a certificate, a letter of congratulations, a $75 personal check, and a $300 grant for their classroom or a donation of their choice.
2023 RECIPIENT - Rachel Paparone
Rachel was unanimously nominated by colleagues for her innovation, dedication, and care in creating a better learning environment for students, particularly in high school French and S.T.E.A.M. programs. A colleague described Rachel as “truly a stand-out individual” who is “extremely motivated to change the learning experience for young folks and does so by using the latest research and implementing ideas that best support student learning.”
2022 RECIPIENT - Justin DiMatteo
Justin DiMatteo is a dedicated teacher whose whole focus is hands-on learning in the Elementary School STEAM space. His students design and print 3D items requested by staff. They create podcasts and morning announcements, and explore the design process. His classroom includes a Gig Board where staff members can request student help on projects.
According to a colleague, “his teaching practice is the epitome of hands-on learning. Justin is a leader in the building and district when it comes to modeling student-centered, hands-on learning and, as a PBL trainer, he spends considerable time coaching teachers to use hands-on learning in their classrooms. His exemplary work deserves to be recognized. Justin is a generous colleague who takes the time to help fellow educators understand the benefits of hands-on learning. He's a huge asset to the district!”