Connetquot High School teacher Alaina Bennett received the 2020-2021 Suffolk Zone Chapter of the NYSAPEHRD Health Teacher of the Award for her role as an outstanding health teacher, coach, mentor and student advocate for the past 15 years. She received a certificate of recognition from the district during the Oct. 12 board of education business meeting.

Director of Health, Physical Education, Athletics and Recreation Peter Melore called Ms. Bennett a mentor and calming resource for students as she spends time helping them resolve issues and conflicts with a mission to educate students on how to achieve positive physical, social and emotional health. Ms. Bennett delved into curriculum writing to ensure that the health program is current, relevant and meeting all New York State mandates. She was also a staff leader as the district implemented virtual learning during the COVID-19 pandemic and has been a mentor and lead teacher for other health teachers districtwide. An adviser for Athletes Helping Athletes for the past 10 years, Ms. Bennett worked with the district’s unified basketball program, using the AHA club to facilitate training of students in the unified program. Students in her class have benefitted from visits by community organizations to speak on topics such as substance abuse, sex education and domestic violence. She also runs numerous charity events and was a basketball coach at Connetquot High School.

“Alaina exemplifies the true teaching professional, as she is not only outstanding in the classroom but is part of the foundation of everything that goes on at Connetquot High School,” Mr. Melore said. “Her most outstanding attribute by far is her sincere and genuine care for all her students and her mission to ensure they achieve a healthy and happy life.