Teacher Spotlight: Holbrook Teacher Has 'Heart Of Gold'

HOLBROOK, NY — Great teachers matter.

In Holbrook, we're fortunate to have teachers like Keri Van DeVenter.

Patch has partnered with T-Mobile to recognize teachers and show them how much they’re valued and appreciated.

This submission comes from Jaime Solonchak who nominated Keri Van DeVenter of Holbrook.

How do you know the teacher?
She was my daughter’s Kindergarten teacher.

What does this person teach?
Kindergarten

Why do you believe the teacher should be recognized or honored?
My daughter’s Kindergarten class was the year of COVID. Where all other classes felt divided, she held us together and really made us feel like we were in it together. Five years later, my daughter is now in 5th grade and Mrs. Van (what they call her for short) is still her safe space. When my daughter is feeling sad, losing her way, or confused … one visit to Mrs. Van, and she’s back on track. She has a heart of gold and loves her students with her whole entire heart.

What's one thing you want everyone to know about the teacher?
She is exceptional. So many don’t realize how important a Kindergarten teacher is. They set the precedent for our children’s future in school. Mrs. Van makes sure each student knows how valued they are and how important they are to her class.

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