During last Wednesday night’s School Committee meeting, Chair Kristen Elworthy recognized this year’s two Dorothy Presser award recipients: Wendy Leone, a special education team chairperson at Lynnfield Middle School, and Emma Bartlett, Summer Street Elementary School special education teacher and assistant to the principal.
Elworthy shared that the awards come from the School Committee, but the nominations for the award come from fellow teachers and staff members. The Dorothy Presser award is a peer-nominated award which was first created in 2019. The award’s purpose is to recognize district employees who have “demonstrated extraordinary commitment to advancing the Lynnfield School District.”
According to Elworthy, one teacher called Bartlett “a problem solver, a collaborator and a true advocate for children – hers, mine and every student who steps in the door, regardless of whether she services them or not.”
Another said that Bartlett was “one of those rare individuals who brings warmth, wisdom and joy to everyone around her – students and colleagues alike. For my first year at Summer Street school, she has been an extraordinary mentor and an unwavering source of support.”
Another Lynnfield educator who nominated Bartlett said that she “is truly the glue to our school. She cares so deeply about students, their progress, and fully supports teachers. The way she actively listens, follows through, and shows up for everyone is remarkable.”
Another said Bartlett “teaches students to read with patience, creativity and skill, designing lessons that are not only effective but genuinely enjoyable. Her instruction transforms learning into a joyful experience and gives her students confidence in themselves.”
Elworthy also shared kind words from those who nominated Leone. One said that Leone is “the model that others have followed and highly regarded for years.”
“She has a way of connecting with students, breaking down curriculum, offering support from which all students can benefit,” the nominator said. “Teachers have always requested to work with her because of her team approach and the way she takes ownership of her students and their needs. Needless to say, at this point, she has set the bar that others strive to reach.”
A fellow educator said that Leone “is a shining example of what it means to be deeply committed to student success.” They added that Leone’s classroom “is a place where every student feels seen, valued and capable. Beyond her impact on students, Wendy is a powerful force among her colleagues. Her innovation and reflective practice raises the bar for everyone around her.”
Someone praised Leone, saying “her leadership is quiet but unmistakably strong.” They added that “What truly sets Wendy apart is her kindness. She’s one of the most compassionate and generous educators I’ve ever had the honor of working with.”
