The Canastota Alumni Association is presenting the 2016 Educator Award to Anita Sue Waite, posthumously. Sadly, Anita passed away just prior to the announcement letter reaching her home.
Graduating from East Meadow High School, Anita continued her education at Syracuse University where she received a Bachelor’s Degree in Special Education and a Master’s degree in Psychology. The Canastota Central School District first employed her to teach at South Side School. Anita continued her employment working at the Canastota Middle and High Schools as a Special Education teacher, devoting thirty-eight years to this profession. Her continued quest for knowledge in this area, her dedication to, and compassion for her students earned her much praise from parents, colleagues and the school administration.
Anita acted as Building Representative for her colleagues, was a member of the Building Planning team and contributed to curriculum development. She became a Team Leader at BOCES. As a volunteer committee member of the Comprehensive District Education Plan. Anita, along with the administration, her peers and other staff members collaborated towards developing community and cultural awareness.
Active and interested in all aspects of the school environment, Anita held membership in the Canastota Teachers’ Association acting as President for a number of years. She served on the Canastota Teacher’s Negotiating Team and was a member of NYSUT. In each of these roles, fellow teachers saw her as a mentor to both new and experienced teachers, always encouraging them to search for answers which would improve their teaching and working conditions for the betterment of the students. Anita’s leadership qualities accompanied by her even disposition and sense of humor kept the faculty united in working towards improving educational goals.
The award will be presented at the 135th annual Canastota Alumni Banquet to be held at the Rusty Rail Party House Saturday, June 25. Friends of Anita and any Canastota Alumni may attend by making reservations with Joyce at 315-762-9144 by June 20. Tickets are $25.
Original story from the Madison County Courier