- STARACE recently earned one of Granite Education Foundation’s Excel awards for his hard work and dedication to teaching. This award is a big deal because only nine teachers were chosen out of 3,500 educators. Receiving the Excel Award demonstrates the impact Mr Starace has had on students and the school.
Mr. Starace said it felt surreal to win the award. He is very grateful even to be nominated and was very, very surprised when he found out he had won. Overall, he felt thankful and honored.
Mr. Starace has been working hard to receive this award.” I like to challenge my students and help them improve,” he said. He pushes students to do their best and supports them, which makes the Excel Award mean even more to him.
Other teachers also think he deserves the award. “He really cares about his students and wants them to succeed,” One teacher said. Other teachers would agree that he challenges students but still wants them to grow and learn. His students love how he teaches. “His class is hard, but it helps us get better,” a student said. Other students also agree that he is good at explaining things. “ He gives homework, but at least it makes sense,” one student said with a smile.
One of the most meaningful aspects of Mr. Starace receiving the Excel Award was the support he felt from current and former students. “I was happy to see that students showed up to support me,” Starace said. Graduates from past years came out, which meant a lot to him and reminded him why he loves teaching.
Mr. Starace said he is in his seventh year of teaching, and in that short time, he has already made a solid impact.
The Excel Award is not just about winning a title, but about the impact a teacher makes every day. Mr. Starace’s passion, dedication, and care for his students are evident inside and outside the classroom. Students say he pushes them to be better, even when it feels tough in the moment. While they may still joke about the workload, many agree they learn a lot and feel supported. The $1500 check doesn’t hurt, either!
