Huntington Highlights: Flower Hill’s Caroline Zaczek Making a Difference

Caroline Zaczek attended Walter G. O’Connell High School in Copiague. But her heart now belongs to Huntington UFSD. She has been teaching first grade at Flower Hill Primary School since September 2023 and is striving to make a difference with her students every day.

Ms. Zaczek is the first faculty member to be profiled as part of a new “Huntington Highlights” initiative that provides community members with insight into teachers and support staff members who toil at the district’s eight individual school buildings.

“Huntington Highlights is our way of recognizing and celebrating the incredible individuals who make a difference in our schools every day,” Superintendent Beth McCoy said. “Each week, we will feature a staff member, faculty member or team member from across our eight buildings and district offices who goes above and beyond to support, motivate, and inspire our students. Together, these dedicated professionals help make the Huntington Union Free School District a truly remarkable place for our students to learn and grow.”

Ms. Zaczek obtained undergraduate and graduate degrees from St. Joseph’s College. She holds licenses to teach Early Childhood Education, Childhood Education, Teacher of English of Speakers of Other Languages and Students with Disabilities.

“Ms. Zaczek consistently goes above and beyond to ensure every child feels valued and successful in her classroom,” Flower Hill Principal Cindy Siegel said. “She creates engaging, hands-on lessons that foster curiosity and love of learning. Caroline is always willing to collaborate and share ideas with her colleagues. Her dedication, patience, and positivity make a lasting impact on both students and staff alike.”

Prior to coming to Huntington, Ms. Zaczek taught in the South Huntington and William Floyd districts, honing her classroom skills.

“I first knew I wanted to become a teacher when I was in college,” Ms. Zaczek said. “One summer, I worked at Western BOCES as a one-to-one aide and I fell in love with the school environment and the joy of helping students learn and grow.”

Outside of school hours, Ms. Zaczek loves taking walks and spending time outdoors. She also enjoys baking and often makes decorated cookies and fresh sourdough bread in her free time.

“Teaching in Huntington UFSD has been such a great experience,” Ms. Zaczek said. “Everyone has been so welcoming and supportive and I really enjoy being part of a community that cares so much about its students and staff. It’s been so rewarding to see my students grow and to work alongside such dedicated colleagues.”