Meghan Libertucci (2016)

2016 Robert Ludwig Teacher of the Year

Each morning before Meghan Libertucci walks into work at Schenectady High School, where she has taught English since 2003, she takes a deep breath and starts the day anew.

“Every day is a fresh start,” she said. Little did Libertucci know Thursday morning when she started the day with a fresh start, all the work she had put in at the school where she started her teaching career would pay off in a big surprise.

Libertucci, who grew up in Clifton Park and graduated from Shenendehowa High School, said of Schenectady High School that she “wouldn’t go anywhere else” to teach. She became a National Board certified teacher in 2009 and has advised student groups from Students Against Drunk Driving to the entire class of 2019.

Her colleagues cited her as a role model and mentor, and an exemplar of patience, student care and leadership in the classroom.

“She makes it look effortless,” said special education teacher Denise Altschule, who co-teaches a class with Libertucci and nominated her for the prize. “She really does care for and have compassion for every kid in her class.”

Her students said she is fun, engaging and a trustworthy confidant. Spring cited Libertucci’s credentials and countless notes of support from other teachers and students, current and former. Her husband, parents, brother, uncle and other family members stood in the back of the class as the award presentation unfolded, and her two young kids beamed over an opportunity to see mom at work.

“What impresses me is she has demonstrated such expertise, such flexibility, such a willingness to engage with new and difficult work,” Spring said as he presented Libertucci with flowers and balloons.