With a positive attitude and a heartwarming smile, special education teacher Stacy Pecorino dives into her first year teaching at West Essex. While she has bounced around through many school districts, her familiarity with the school comes from having children in the district. Previously, she has taught middle school, but this year she has the opportunity to teach at the high school as well.
“I have the best of both worlds, because I’m at the high school and I’m also at the middle school, so I’m excited about being at the high school for the first time,” Pecorino said.
After being predominantly familiar with a middle school environment, Pecorino said she’s excited about being able to experience a whole new side of teaching. While she is a very versatile teacher who has taught just about every subject, she specializes in special education.
Aside from having the ability to work in both schools, Pecorino is also excited to become more involved with the community. Getting used to a new environment, especially a high school with many hallways, can be difficult for some people. She said she’s thankful for those who have welcomed and guided her into her new atmosphere, showing support and encouragement.
“Everyone’s been very helpful, very kind, and patient with me,” Pecorino said. “And I feel like as each day is going by, I’m feeling a little less overwhelmed.”
Pecorino said she values the connections she makes with her students. Aside from being able to stimulate their brains with a standard curriculum and producing successful students, she also wants to have an emotional lasting influence on them. She hopes to make a positive impact on her students and teach them lessons they’ll never forget.
“I want them to just enjoy their years of middle school and high school, because then after that, it’s the real world,” Pecorino said.
She said she wants her students will understand the privilege of learning. She shares that having the ability to be educated properly is an advantage. To her, being a teacher is more than just teaching academics, but truly educating their minds to create knowledgeable young adults.
“I want them to be prepared and successful and to know that their education is something no one can take away from them,” Pecorino said. They should really strive to be the best students they can be.”
