For the past 37 years, the East Williston Teachers’ Association has awarded a scholarship to a graduating senior who plans to study education and to become a teacher.
The David K. Israel Scholarship is a $10,000 scholarship, named after a 40-year veteran English teacher who served as the East Williston Teachers’ Association president for more than a quarter-century.
This year’s recipient is Emily Gothelf.
One teacher describes Emily as approachable and open-minded. Her calm and positive way encourages others to slow down, relax, and be mindful. She is an attentive and empathetic listener, wise beyond her years.
She is mature, independent, and reliable. She communicates and advocates for herself. She is honest and humble. This teacher continues, I am constantly amazed by her strength, ingenuity, and creativity.
She believes in herself and values her education. She makes Quizlets as a study tool before a test, and she is known to share them with the rest of the class. She is a natural teacher.
Emily is described by another faculty member as someone who exudes honesty, integrity and evokes a passion for service. She has superb intelligence. She often looked for interesting material outside of class to bring into our discussions during class time.
She is a fantastic candidate and I think she will be an outstanding teacher.
Emily has dedicated her life to volunteering. Since her years at North Side where she was a model student in the inclusion class, she has expanded her service to include volunteering at Stepps, Connections, Friendship Circle, Creative Arts, Camp Kehilla and the Viscardi Center.
These programs reach out to children with ADHD, Autism, severe disabilities, muscular dystrophy and cerebral palsy. She has also been a peer tutor. She already has a most impressive resume.
Vanderbilt University is truly fortunate to welcome her this fall.
Tax-deductible contributions can be made to the David K. Israel Scholarship Foundation c/o The Wheatley School, 11 Bacon Road, Old Westbury, NY, 11568
