2 Northport High School Teachers Win Educator Awards

NORTHPORT, NY — David Scott and Janis Schachter, who both teach in Northport High School's social studies and law department, were honored this school year with awards for their work as educators, according to the school district.

Scott, coordinator of the school’s law-related education program Project P.A.T.C.H. and high school teacher, was honored with the Law-Related Educator of the Year Award by the American Bar Association. The award, named the Isadore Starr Award after famed professor of law Dr. Isadore Starr, is particularly meaningful to Scott, who had a personal relationship with the professor prior to his death.

"The lessons that [Dr. Starr] taught in his time are just as relevant, if not more relevant today," Scott stated. "It is very humbling to earn the award in his name because he was somebody who meant so much to me."

District Chairperson of Social Studies Sean Hurley described Scott as someone who has had an "incalculable positive impact" on students and staff among the entire Northport-East Northport School District.

"As a teacher, professor, organizer of law-related events and presenter at numerous conferences, Dave’s impact, educating and inspiring others, continues to reach far beyond our community," Hurley said.

Schachter, who also teaches social studies at Northport High School, was named the 2020-2021 New York State Distinguished Social Studies Educator by the New York State Council for Social Studies.

Schachter teaches a variety of humanities courses, but is most proud of her news literacy course, which she helped found approximately 10 years ago, according to the district. Both her and Scott have been heavily involved in promoting the news literacy agenda, which focuses on teaching students how to find reliable information in a time when they can be overwhelmed with different news sources and information.

Due to the coronavirus outbreak, this school year has been especially difficult as a teacher, Schachter said. Being honored with the award was a reminder of why she loves her job, she said.

"I think teaching is the most important job in the world, and sometimes it can feel as though we are operating alone; but this was a reminder that people do notice and do appreciate what we do," Schachter stated.

Schachter also praised her students and their work as the true reflection of her success. Both
Schachter and Scott were honored at virtual award ceremonies this year.