Schools
Donations From Optimum To Help Local Stamford Teachers
Several Stamford educators recently received helpful donations from Optimum at the annual SPEF Excellence in Education Awards.

GREENWICH, CT — Ahead of Teacher Appreciation Week, the Stamford Public Education Foundation (SPEF) hosted its annual Excellence in Education Awards, recognizing 22 local educators and receiving more than $5,000 in donations from Optimum to support classroom resources.
Optimum, a regional provider of internet, mobile, TV and phone services, partnered with the national education nonprofit DonorsChoose to provide each of the 22 Educator Award nominees with a $200 DonorsChoose gift card. The gift cards can be used on the DonorsChoose platform to purchase classroom tools and resources.
The nominees, selected by Stamford Public Schools’ Parent-Teacher Organizations, were recognized for enriching student learning, fostering community collaboration, and demonstrating a commitment to professional growth and the broader Stamford community.
Find out what's happening in Stamfordfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Mandi Leale of Newfield Elementary School received the top honor, the SPEF Educator Award Presented by Optimum, along with a $1,000 cash donation.
"As a company focused on technology and innovation, Optimum continues to champion programs across Connecticut that help inspire and educate future innovators, and the company is thrilled to be able to provide this donation to enable access to essential tools, technologies, and experiences that support student education, growth, and success," the company said in a statement.
Find out what's happening in Stamfordfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Optimum said the donation reflects its broader commitment to supporting local communities and making a positive impact across the state.
Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.