October 2008

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Elizabeth Olivo, music teacher at the Scotchtown Avenue Elementary School in Goshen, received the 2008 Dean’s Award for Excellence in Teaching from the State University of New York at New Paltz.

Olivo has been the primary music education teacher at Scotchtown Avenue Elementary School for the last 20 years. In addition, she is the K-8 music coordinator for the district and oversees the music programs in the Goshen Intermediate School and C. J. Hooker Middle School.

In her daily teaching, Olivo works to bring a level of music appreciation and competency to her young students. “I have the opportunity to introduce all aspects of music to my students,” said Olivo. “It’s a lifelong subject that students can enjoy in their own way.”

She strives to teach music in a manner that sparks a love of music in her students and will continue with them throughout their years at Goshen. “Being able to see the quality of our musical productions at the high school and knowing that those talented students began in my classroom – it’s a wonderful feeling.”

Olivo was nominated for the award by Superintendent Roy Reese. In his letter of recommendation, Reese states, “I am amazed at the skill and patience she exhibits teaching these young children. Betty is truly a gifted educator with a level of expectation matched only by her level of dedication.”

Olivo was honored at a special reception in September at the College Terrace at SUNY New Paltz and again in October at the Mid-Hudson School Study Council's Awards for Excellence Dinner at Anthony’s Pier Nine.