Dedicated Southampton Teacher Recognized With Long Island-Wide Award

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SOUTHAMPTON, NY — Christina Cassel Duryea, Southampton Intermediate School’s family and consumer sciences teacher, has been named Long Island FACS Teacher of the Year, the district said.

She will be presented with the award on March 21 at Hofstra University.

Duryea earned the award for her significant contributions to the field of education as a dedicated teacher of family and consumer sciences, district officials said.

"The Southampton Intermediate School Family and Consumer Sciences program plays a crucial role in our school and community by equipping students with essential life skills that contribute to personal and societal well-being," Duryea said.

During her 10 years at the Southampton School District, Duryea has introduced students to innovative workshops and lessons that empower them to make informed decisions that enhance their quality of life, officials said.

She has placed an emphasis on practical skills, such as cooking and sewing, that not only prepare students for independent living but also foster a sense of responsibility and community engagement, district officials added.

In addition, the partnerships she has forged with local businesses and organizations allow her students to participate in service projects that address physical and mental health and wellness, officials said.

She has also secured numerous grants that provide for additional learning opportunities, including those from the National Agriculture in the Classroom organization, the Suffolk County Soil and Water Conservation District and New York Agriculture in the Classroom.

And, that's not all: It's not the first time that Duryea has been recognized for her work inthe classroom. In 2018, she was named New York Agriculture in the Classroom Teacher of the Year, and in the same year, she was presented with a proclamation from Suffolk County Executive Steven Bellone for her farm-to-school work.

She was also an honorary event chair speaker at the James Beard Foundation 2015 Culinary Legacy Gala.

Duryea holds a master’s degree in teaching food education from Johnson and Wales University and a Bachelor of Science in food service management.