Behind HFCA’s Award Winning Students is an Award Winning Teacher

This past year Holy Family Catholic Academy (Inverness) middle school students won seven awards from outside organizations. The entire community recognized and applauded these hard working students who went above and beyond to create exemplary work. What is often assumed, but not always recognized is that behind these talented students are teachers who inspire, challenge, and encourage their students to excel. Recently, HFCA was delighted to announce that Middle School Teacher, Mrs. Eileen Paparone was publicly recognized as an outstanding educator.

The Eli Skinner Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) chose Paparone out of approximately 1,000 social studies teachers in the chapter’s area to receive their award as Outstanding Teacher of American History for 2021-2022. States Ms. Robin Turpin, Ph.D. and Chapter Historian, “Our DAR Chapter was incredibly impressed with the historical accuracy, creativity, and insights expressed by the essays from Mrs. Paparone’s class. In fact, HFCA students won 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place awards. The quality of these essays was indeed a testament to Mrs. Paparone’s teaching prowess, and our board unanimously selected Eileen Paparone for this award.”

States HFCA Principal, Kate O’Brien, “We are thrilled that Eileen received this prestigious award. She is truly committed to her students, presents history in an engaging manner, and sets high academic standards for all of her students.” HFCA student and Eli Skinner Chapter Award winner, Brandon Thomsen adds, “Mrs. Paparone does more than just read chapters in a textbook. She actually recreates historical events in the classroom through videos, songs, pictures, and so much more. I learn so much from her special style of teaching, and equally important, I appreciate that she always encourages each of us to be our best. Because of her, our classes become something to look forward to every day of the week.”

Brandon is not alone in his praise for Mrs. Paparone. Social media posts announcing Paparone’s award drew over a thousand views and congratulations from students and parents spanning her entire 14 year career at HFCA.

The timing of this award is also noteworthy. While many students in other schools were attending class virtually, HFCA held classes in person, and students met or exceeded their academic goals. Explains Principal O’Brien, “This award has even greater meaning given it was recognized during the pandemic. Eileen’s engaging style of teaching had to be adapted to meet COVID protocols, and she and her students still maintained high academic standards.”

Reflecting on this award, Mrs. Paparone said, “I am very humbled to be recognized by the Eli Skinner Chapter of the DAR and very blessed to have such amazing students. Exploring American History with my middle school classes offers me a unique opportunity to share the powerful story of our country and spark patriotism in our next generation."

According to Dr. Turpin, the Eli Skinner Chapter will recognize Mrs. Paparone at their annual awards ceremony on February 6, 2022.