Physics is a challenging subject for many students. This does not discourage physics and marine science teacher Amy Ezagui from excelling as an educator and enabling her students to achieve success. Ezagui, who has spent 23 of her 28 years teaching in Lynbrook, said, “I enjoy teaching a class that I can help students relate to their outside lives.”
The Lynbrook Chamber of Commerce held a ceremony at the Coral House in Baldwin, honoring those in the community who have significantly served and contributed to the town. Honored Thursday, Jan. 29, Ezagui was recognized by the Chamber and other elected officials for her hard work and service in the district. The evening began with pictures and proclamations during the cocktail hour, followed by a dinner and dessert.
At the ceremony, Lynbrook Schools Superintendent Dr. Paul Lynch spoke on Ezagui’s behalf. When asked about some of her notable qualities, Lynch commented that her “energy, reliability, and the extent to which she gives to the school community” are some of her best traits. He continued, “She is always willing to step up and help, and when a job needs to be done right, we know we can count on her. That has been true in so many different areas, from her work in the classroom to her leadership as Marion Street PTA president, where she helped design the new playground, to starting Camp Invention last summer and continuing it this year.”
When Ezagui learned of her achievement, she said she was “truly shocked” and filled with honor. She explained, “I have given my heart and soul to my job. I also have a reputation for being a strict teacher and have high standards for myself and my students, so to get acknowledged for all my hard work was truly an honor.” Junior Caleigh Buckley, one of Ezagui’s physics students, was pleased to hear about this award. “She is a very nice person, and she cares about all her students,” said Buckley.
Someone Ezagui thanked for being a supportive person in her experience is Science Department Facilitator and teacher Charles Vessalico. She shared, “Mr. Vessalico is somebody that I can say really has helped me in my journey. He is one of my closest work friends at the high school, and he is always open to listening to the struggles I am going through. He helps me see a different perspective and allows me to self-reflect and come up with solutions on my own.”
Ezagui has demonstrated dedication to the community and continues to inspire her students at LHS. “At the ceremony, I really wanted to highlight that Ms. Ezagui always goes the extra mile for Lynbrook. She is deeply committed to the district and to the community, and that shows in everything she does,” Lynch added. “Ms. Ezagui was actually one of the first people I met in Lynbrook. She was on the interview committee when I came to the district as director of technology in 2009. So, in a way, she was part of my introduction to Lynbrook, and I always think that says something. She made an impression right away as someone thoughtful, down-to-earth, and fully invested in the district, and that’s exactly who she still is.”
