North Fork Community Mourns Loss Of Beloved Elementary School Teacher

NORTH FORK, NY — Students, teachers, and the North Fork community were cloaked in mourning at news that Jeanne Finger, a beloved elementary school teacher, died on July 2, "following a hard-fought battle with cancer," according to her obituary.

The Mattituck-Cutchogue School District said that they were "deeply saddened by the passing of Cutchogue East Elementary School teacher Jeanne Finger" and extended "its deepest sympathy and condolences to her family and friends during this difficult time."

"The Mattituck-Cutchogue School District will always remember Jeanne's professional and personal contributions to our school community. Her colleagues will always remember Jeanne as a dear friend who consistently brought out the best in all of us," said Superintendent of Schools Shawn Petretti.

Finger joined the district as a substitute teacher in September 2000 and later served as a leave replacement AIS/Reading teacher before becoming a full-time elementary teacher in 2004. She was granted tenure by the board of education in September 2006, having already been tenured in the William Floyd School District, where she worked as an elementary education teacher, the district said.

Finger served the Mattituck-Cutchogue School District for 23 years. She was actively involved in curriculum writing projects and assessments, acted as a teacher mentor and participated in CSE meetings. Most recently, she served on the Cutchogue East report card committee.

"She was known for always sharing her bright smile throughout Cutchogue East Elementary and throughout the district. Jeanne was truly a special person who has made a significant impact on the students, staff and the entire school community," Petretti said.

"Throughout her years in the district, Jeanne assumed many roles: classroom teacher, math specialist and interventionist," said Director of Curriculum Instruction and Innovation Illana Finnegan. "Although she focused on math instruction later in her career, she loved all subjects as an avid learner and personified what it means to be collaborative. Jeanne was meticulous, and if you needed someone to peer review any piece of writing, she was your go-to person."

A master teacher, she was known for and respected for her expertise in differentiating instruction to meet the needs of all students, the district said. As the New York State learning standards shifted through the years, Jeanne was a significant leader in aligning and advancing the math curriculum. In addition to her expertise in instruction, Jeanne developed strong connections with students and families. She ensured students felt supported and cared for in her presence and beyond the school day, the district said.

"Jeanne Finger was an incredible teacher who was always sharing her bright smile throughout Cutchogue East Elementary School," said Principal Amy Brennan. "Whenever she spoke with someone, she always lifted their spirits and made them feel as if they were the most important person in the world. She was truly a special person who always put students first and cared so deeply for each one. She regularly advocated for her students, knew exactly what her students' strengths and areas of growth were and provided support with intention, clarity and precision. "

Brennan added: "She was a brilliant educator. Over the years, Jeanne was a mentor to many and a leader to all of us at CE. She always went out of her way to help and care for others. We will all remember Jeanne's smile as she demonstrated what it truly means to be not only an outstanding educator, but a true colleague and friend."

The Mattituck-Cutchogue School District provided grief counseling services to staff as needed.