Meet The North Fork Educator 'Who Wears A Million Hats'

Laurel, New York — Back-to-school season brings a mix of excitement and nerves — for students, parents and staff alike. Thankfully, Laurel is home to everyday school heroes who help make the transition smoother and the school year a little brighter.

From teachers and tutors to bus drivers, cafeteria staff, crossing guards and more, these caring individuals bring steady support and positivity to our schools. To recognize their many contributions — big and small — Patch has partnered with T-Mobile to salute the unsung heroes of back-to-school.

This submission comes from Rose Connolly, who nominated Tammy Federlin of Just Kids Early Learning Center Laurel.

What is the school hero’s name?

Tammy Federlin

Where does this school hero work?

Just Kids Early Learning Center Laurel

Please describe why this individual is a hero at your school.

Tammy is the director of the Just Kids Early Learning Center for the North Fork area, which includes locations in Laurel, Cutchogue and Riverhead. Meeting her you can see her absolute love of all children and especially for children with special needs. She wears a million hats, from supporting staff, to taking time to welcome parents, to comforting children in addition to all of her administrative work and maintaining buildings. She is an unsung hero because she will drop everything to help someone despite her many, many duties. She puts in long hours before and after work but no one — parents, staff and students — ever feels she is too busy to help. And incredibly, she does it all with a smile! Her impact for the children of our community is immeasurable.

How do you know the school hero you’re nominating?

I’m a speech therapist that works with her

What should your community know about this person?

Tammy is dedicated to each and every child that comes through the Just Kids Early Learning program. She is a model of how to support children and their families in every possible way. I’ve known her for over 15 years and can honestly say I’ve never met any educator as dedicated as she is. Your children or grandchildren, whether in general education or special education, will be well loved at a Just Kids location because of the trickle-down love and dedication from Tammy.

What three words best describe the school hero?

Compassionate, loving, dedicated

If you know a school hero who deserves recognition, we’d love to hear from you! Simply answer a few questions, and we’ll take care of the rest.

This content is brought to our community in partnership with T-Mobile.