McVay third grade teacher Scotti Smith is pictured with Principal Scott May, family members and Sunrise Rotarians, who showed up to surprise her with the Service to Youth award on Friday morning, April 27.
Third grade teacher Scotti Smith was surprised on April 27 when a group of Sunrise Rotarians visited McVay Elementary School during an assembly to present her with a Diane J. Conley Rotary Club of Westerville Sunrise Service to Youth award. She received a plaque 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. Smith and other Service to Youth award winners will be recognized at a breakfast on May 16.
According to her nominator, Smith always has fun ways to teach. For those who are struggling, she emphasizes the importance of how they respond to challenges. She is especially loved by ADHD pupils because she shows them how to succeed. Smith keeps track of pupils after they leave her classroom and is said to be “truly an amazing teacher who is deserving of this award.”
Rotary Sunrise instituted Service to Youth awards seven 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.