MHSCC

George F. Baker High School Tech and Engineering teacher was honored by the Mid-Hudson School Study Council last Thursday night, receiving an award for ‘Teaching Excellence.’

Margotta, who has been with the Tuxedo Union Free School District for the past 26 years, was among several educators recognized during the ceremony held at North Rockland’s Fieldstone Middle School. 

When introduced for the award, the following was said about Margotta:

"To say that Marco is indispensable to Tuxedo would be an understatement.  Not only can he do most anything, his willingness to step up and assist the district as well as his understanding of the school’s vision are unparalleled.  He developed and created the Tuxedo STEM Academy which has been certified by the National Institute for STEM education.  He is on the Scheduling Committee where he willingly shares skills learned from National experts, he serves as a baseball coach in the district and acts as a district advisor to the Tuxedo Farms Building Project.  Marco is also the unofficial school historian.  On a moment’s notice he can produce maps, plans, letters or other important documents that serve to give understanding of past decisions and the impact of current deliberations.  Simply put, Marco is the person everyone goes to when in need, ever helpful and always focused on making Tuxedo a better school district. "

Joining Margotta at the event were his family, Superintendent Jeff White, Board of Education President Joe Rickard, Trustee Gary Heavner and former district treasurer Dan Martin. Orange Ulster BOCES District Superintendent Tom Bongiovi also took time to catch up with Margotta.

“Excellence. I couldn’t think of better word to use for Marco’s accomplishments, not only as a teacher, but in his role as STEM advisor and now Athletic Director,” said White. “It was honor to watch him be recognized by the Mid-Hudson School Study Council for the excellent work he does for his students and the entire Tuxedo community.”

It was a busy week for Margotta. In addition to the MHSSC award, he was the recipient of a STEM Classroom Grant from the Orange & Rockland Education Advisory Council. Margotta is also the District's Athletic Director.