7 local public school teachers honored

Seven teachers from South Philly schools were selected to receive the 2021 Lindback Award for Distinguished Teachers. 

Sixty total honorees were chosen by the Christian R. and Mary F. Lindback Foundation of Philadelphia and the School District of Philadelphia. The award, which has been funded by the Lindback Foundation since 2011, is an opportunity for exceptional teachers from district schools to be recognized for their dedication to public school students. Recipients also receive a $3,500 cash award.

”Our educators are always worthy of our appreciation and praise, but especially this year as they’ve managed to teach our students as we’ve all dealt with the uncertainty created by the global pandemic,” said Lindback Foundation trustee Sheldon Bonovitz. “The Lindback Foundation is committed to recognizing the great work put forth by School District of Philadelphia teachers, and we are proud to acknowledge the outstanding job they’ve done during this challenging time.”

The Lindback Foundation’s Selection Committee selected teachers based on their leadership and humanitarian contributions to their respective school communities. The Foundation also honors principals with the Lindback Award for Distinguished Principals and celebrated a group of seven winners last month. Those school leaders were each presented with a $20,000 stipend to be used to support each winner’s school community.

Winning teachers from South Philly schools were Angela Chan from the Andrew Jackson School at 1213 S. 12th St.; Leslie Grace from the George W. Nebinger School at 601 Carpenter St.; Daniel Hayes from the Chester A. Arthur School at 2000 Catharine St.; Maggie Hennessy from the Girard Academic Music Program at 2136 Ritner St.; Dana Laut from the George W. Childs School at 1599 Wharton St.; Catherine Memmolo from the Eliza B. Kirkbride School at 1501 S. 7th St.; and Erik Wiessmann from the Academy at Palumbo at 1100 Catharine St.

The ceremony was held virtually on Tuesday, May 18.

“Teachers have always been essential workers, the individuals who have a direct impact on our children’s futures,” said Superintendent William R. Hite Jr. “But our teachers have truly gone above and beyond this past year, giving their time and talent to make sure children throughout Philadelphia receive not just the education they deserve, but the education they need to become positive and contributing members of society.”

For the full list of winners, visit https://www.philasd.org/cso/about/lindback-foundation-awards/.