Published in the June 28, 2018 edition

By JILLIAN STRING

NORTH READING — Whitney Cleary, a fifth-grade science teacher at the J.T. Hood School, was honored by School Committee members at their June 11 meeting.

Cleary was one of five finalists for The Hall at Patriots Place STEM Teacher of the Year. She was the only elementary teacher in the state to receive this honor, as the other four finalists were high school teachers.

SCHOOL COMMITTEE Chairman Janene Imbriano (left) congratulates Whitney Cleary for being named a finalist for STEM Teacher of the Year. Cleary teaches fifth-grade science at the Hood School. (Jillian String Photo)

“I had the opportunity to see firsthand some of the work she’s doing at the Hood School, particularly the makerspaces, and her drive for science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and how she imparts that enthusiasm to her students is really remarkable. It’s a very well deserved honor for her, and for the district,” Superintendent Jon Bernard said.

Hood School Principal Glen McKay was in attendance at the meeting and spoke to committee members in praise of Cleary’s efforts.

“I’ve had the pleasure over the past 10 years to watch (Cleary’s) professional practice grow. …She’s pioneered so many things with us,” McKay stated. “She’s inspiring the children through our makerspace days across classrooms and grade levels, but above and beyond that, she’s inspiring her colleagues to take risks and challenges.”

As a finalist, Cleary was awarded $1,000 from Raytheon to put toward STEM education at the Hood School.

McKay noted that the funds will be used for science tables for the Hood School fifth grade.

Committee members also congratulated Cleary.

“We’re moving in the right direction and we’re moving quickly, and really appreciate all you’ve done for the school and the district,” School Committee member Mel Webster said.

“I just want to congratulate you, and it’s great when somebody that deserves it gets recognition,” Vice Chairman Scott Buckley added.

“Thank you so much for the support and the nomination,” Cleary said.

According to The Hall at Patriots Place, the STEM Teacher of the Year program launched in October of 2012 when Robert Kraft announced the initiative at the Massachusetts STEM Summit held that year at Gillette Stadium. The STEM Teacher of the Year award is part of The Hall’s education program, which provides standards-based educational modules for grades 4-12.