ATH Presents Scholarship to
Annie Coffey
The Associated Teachers of Huntington presented a $1,000 scholarship to Huntington High School senior Annie Coffey at this spring's senior academic awards night. She hopes to become an English teacher in the district.
Huntington social studies teacher and ATH President James Graber made the presentation on behalf of the ATH before a crowd of about 300 students and their family members in the high school auditorium.
"I want to be a teacher and I would love to teach in Huntington," Ms. Coffey said. "Getting a scholarship from the teachers who have taught me, and who I have so admired, is more special than words can convey." The senior will be attending Hunter College in the fall where she plans to major in English education and creative writing.
The ATH is the professional organization representing teachers in the district. For the past five decades, the group has presented an annual scholarship to a graduating senior who plans to become a teacher.
"Annie is a mature, hard working individual," said Bernadette Walsh, Huntington's college counselor. "Academically, she has chosen high caliber courses throughout her high school career. Annie is the student you look forward to teaching because of her enthusiasm and love of learning, always contributing significant insight and data to class discussions. She is a disciplined learner with a positive attitude toward her school work. She has a strong work ethic and is insatiably curious in the classroom!"
Ms. Coffey interned this year with Huntington High School music teacher Brian Stellato, gaining practical and valuable experience for her future career. Her work with the junior band was fulfilling on a variety of levels. "I've learned so much about teaching, leadership and friendship," Ms. Coffey said. "I am confident about the path I am choosing because of all the positive role models I have had as teachers in Huntington. To be able to give back to the district that has given me so much is my dream."
Those seeking the ATH award are asked to complete an application that includes an essay detailing their plans to become a teacher. The scholarship is supported by membership dues paid by Huntington's teachers.
"Teaching is a noble profession, one that I am proud to call myself a part of," Mr. Graber said. "I look forward to the day that Annie Coffey joins our ranks to carry on the tradition of excellence imparted here in the Huntington School District."