Sarah Graffigna, 2016 David K. Israel Scholarship Recipient

​For the past 29 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 Ms. Sarah Graffigna.

One of her teachers describes her as someone who is committed to scholarship; that her intellectual capacity and social affability make her an exceptionally well rounded student. She is an attentive listener, active class participant and efficient speaker. She is comfortable taking on challenges and works diligently towards success.  Sarah is described by another faculty member as a joy to be around. She is approachable, understanding and giving. She is bright, and she is willing to share her unique insights. She brings fun to the work of teaching and learning.

Sarah has served our community in a number of leadership capacities and has an outstanding record of volunteer work for a number of excellent causes, most notably her commitment to the students in the EWSD’s Life Skills program. When describing her work in the special needs community, Sarah shared how the students are her inspiration. It is through them that she has found the courage to branch out, to get out of her comfort zone and to take risks. She has learned, through her volunteer efforts, the value of perseverance, patience, flexibility and hard work. All great lessons to have learned before becoming a teacher.

One of the Scholarship Foundation Trustees noted, “Sarah has laid a tremendously strong foundation which will support her, not only in her studies to become a teacher, but as experience which will serve her greatly as she ultimately enters the profession.

The University of Maryland is truly fortunate to welcome her this fall. Congratulations Sarah! 

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

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