McVay Elementary’s Lisa Dapoz is joined by her husband as Westerville Sunrise Rotarians presented her with the organization’s Service to Youth Award.
McVay Elementary’s January 16 staff meeting experienced a welcome disruption as a group of Sunrise Rotarians visited the school to honor First Grade Teacher Lisa Dapoz with a Diane J. Conley Rotary Club of Westerville Sunrise Service to Youth award.
Dapoz received a trophy from the club, along with cookies and a gift card donated by the Walmart Supercenter on Schrock Road. In addition, an American flag will be flown in her honor during Westerville’s Field of Heroes display. Sunrise Rotary also recognizes yearly Service to Youth award winners at a breakfast in May.
According to her nominator, Dapoz gives freely of her time both inside the classroom and outside of the school. She is often found in the cafeteria, sitting with students who need a friend. Dapoz remains a driving force behind many school initiatives, such as Peace Day and Caring & Sharing Week. As a result of these efforts, her students are eager learners and kind human beings.
Rotary Sunrise instituted Service to Youth awards 11 years ago to recognize exceptional school employees who have made a special contribution to youth; have served as a positive role model for young people; and have demonstrated service above and beyond the call of duty in performing their job responsibilities. The award is named in honor of Sunrise Rotarian Diane Conley, retired Chief of Academic Affairs for Westerville City Schools.