Congratulations to Berlin Elementary Teacher and Helping Hands Coordinator Mrs. Deanna Baker, who will be honored with the Capital Area School Development Association (CASDA) Friends of Education Award! CASDA presents this award annually to recognize the selfless contributions of individuals who dedicate themselves to serving students and enriching their school communities.
Deanna Baker has been with the Berlin Central School district for close to 20 years. In addition to her work in the classroom, Mrs. Baker is always thinking of special ways to support the whole school community, whether searching out additional funding to provide new tools to support her students with extra needs, or supporting families.
Mrs. Baker is also a community member and her impact goes well beyond the doors of her classroom as the Special Education teacher and head teacher in the BES Shooting Stars programs.
“As a special education teacher Mrs. Baker has risen as the go-to for anyone in need,” said Berlin Elementary Kindergarten teacher Mrs. Katie Hooks.
Mrs. Baker’s efforts range from the Helping Hands program (a program designed to help families in need in the community with weekend food bags to help ensure that they have food for the weekend), holding school supplies drives and collecting and organizing clothing donations for students who might need a change of clothes, a warm coat and even winter gear.
During the holiday season, Deanna coordinates the BCSD Holiday Bears. This program provides families in need with holiday gifts and clothing to ensure all students have a special holiday experience.
“Deanna goes above and beyond for both families and students within our community,” added Mrs. Hooks. “We are grateful for her unwavering support and dedication to everyone at Berlin Elementary School.”
Elementary School Principal, Mrs. Jodi Cataldo, reflected on Deanna’s commitment to the school district and its families: “Deanna is always thinking of special ways to support her students and the whole school community.
“She has worked hard to develop the Shooting Stars program and serves as a mentor for teachers in the elementary building.”
“Deanna is always available to listen and provide help whether it be a classroom issue, helping a family in need, or just providing feedback on things happening in the building,” said Mrs. Cataldo.
In 2019 Deanna received the CAPCOM Federal Credit Union “Making a Difference Award.”
When describing her then, BCSD parent and community member, Ms. Melanie Winters, said, “She is patient, attentive, and just the right amount of silly to keep her little learners engaged and excited.
“Her caring heart dives deep into the community, and her acts of service spread wide.”
Deanna Baker will be awarded the Friends of Education honor at the CASDA Annual Awards and Friends of Education Celebration on May 1, at 6 p.m., at Century House in Latham.
To attend: https://www.casdany.org/awards-dinner