Garden City Public Schools

Garden City’s Stewart School third grade teacher Mrs. Kristy Chiafair was selected as an honoree at Assemblyman Ed Ra’s 12th Annual Women of Distinction Awards Ceremony. The Women of Distinction Awards celebrate women who make a meaningful difference through community service, education and leadership, consistently uplifting and inspiring those around them.

Last year, Mrs. Chiafair worked closely with the Katz family — particularly their son, Sebastian — alongside a team of professionals to provide support. In recognition of her compassion, dedication and commitment to her students, the Katz family nominated her for this award.

“When we received notice from Assemblyman Edward Ra’s office about nominating an outstanding professional woman for the Women of Distinction Awards, we knew immediately we wanted to nominate our son Sebastian’s third grade teacher at Stewart School, Mrs. Kristy Chiafair,” said Mrs. Darienne Segura-Katz and Dr. Douglas Katz.

“Mrs. Chiafair guided Sebastian through a challenging year and gave him constant support, structure and encouragement while balancing the needs of her whole class. Patient, caring and firm, she taught him gentle discipline, knowledge and life and learning skills to our son and to all his classmates. She frequently took extra time, even outside of school hours, to help us with the education of our child. Her positivity, practical teaching methods, and flexibility truly exemplify what makes a great teacher.”

“Imparting practical information, employing techniques to learn, remember and understand information, utilizing structured yet, when necessary, flexible scheduling and having an extremely positive attitude toward teaching are things we believe epitomize a great teacher — attributes which summarize Mrs. Chiafair,” they said.

“I am truly honored to receive this recognition,” said Mrs. Chiafair. “The most rewarding part of my job is watching my students every year become part of our classroom family and grow in so many ways. I love to watch my students become confident young learners who can navigate challenges and take pride in their success. I feel so blessed to be part of such a wonderful community!”