Physical education teacher Lisa Cohen from Queens, New York, has garnered a 2022 Big Apple award. Photo credit: NYC Department of Education
I always enjoy sharing stories about exceptional teachers who have earned recognition for their work in the educational community. One of these is Lisa Cohen, a physical education teacher from New York who has garnered a 2022 Big Apple Award.
Lisa teaches pre-K through fifth grade students at PS 91 in the Borough of Queens in New York City. She says her goal is to create supportive environments that meet her students’ specific needs. To this end, she adapts and adjusts her instruction to challenge her students so they can move forward at a comfortable pace. She provides instruction in multiple ways, making use of technology, visuals, support staff members, and even her own students to help demonstrate skills and concepts. She has created routines that are high energy, fun, and contribute to creating a great learning environment.
Not only does Lisa work for the benefit of her young students, but she also engages the entire school community in physical education activities through field days and other physical activity opportunities. For example, when schools were closed down at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, Lisa offered morning fitness opportunities virtually for students, staff members, and parents. Because of her efforts, the PS 91 community was provided with positive lifelong practices that helped all of them remain healthy and active during the shut-downs.
In addition to teaching physical education, Lisa leads the fourth grade inquiry team, and has developed school-wide professional learning opportunities for her fellow educators.
Lisa was one of five educators from Queens and 20 teachers from throughout New York City who received a Big Apple Award in 2022. This is the tenth year that the awards have been distributed in a citywide recognition program to celebrate New York City’s public school teachers. The recipients were nominated by district leaders and principals. Mayor Eric Adams congratulated the honored educators for their dedication and commitment to changing the lives of New York City students. “Being a teacher isn’t always easy, but you all have shown up as selfless and caring individuals who devote themselves to the well-being and progress of our students. Thank you!” Adams said.
