Teacher Of The Week: Ms. Lorraine Sparacio

NORTH BABYLON, NY — Everybody has a favorite teacher — maybe it's a teacher who went out of their way to make one student's day or a teacher who brightens up a classroom, whether virtually or in-person, every day.

One teacher who deserves a shout-out is Ms. Lorraine Sparacio, a special education teacher at North Babylon High School. She was nominated by Lorie Bonadonna.

Here's what Bonadonna had to say about Ms. Sparacio:

My nomination is extremely special. She is the light of our life, the smile on my son's face, although you cannot see it (because of the mask).

Picture this, being a child with down syndrome, being transitioned to high school, during a pandemic. With schools being closed for months, you have the option to start your new school, masked, socially distant, on a bus, promised to be safe. Well, we went for it. Thomas needs a routine, although he can do without getting up so early.

Mrs. Sparacio is our hero. She has truly brought light to such a dark time. She has done so much, with so little due to the pandemic. Her program should be so hands-on in the community, and even so she is making the best of it and teaching my son the skills that he needs to survive in this world. Mrs. Sparacio and her team are deserving of the most amazing award. But really, the best award they are giving me, is my son. Thank you for all you do everyday. You are selfless. I thank you. We thank you.

Congratulations to Ms. Sparacio! Thank you for all that you do!

Do you have a special teacher you think deserves a shout-out for Teacher of the Week? Email priscila.korb@patch.com to nominate your favorite teacher.