Elementary School Music Teacher Cliff Loretto and Otisville PTO Chairperson Michelle Thompson have been named recipients of the Mid-Hudson School Study Council’s 2025 Awards for Excellence.
Mr. Loretto was presented with a Teaching Excellence Award; and Ms. Thompson was presented with a Community Service Award.
Each year, the Newburgh-based organization honors those in the education field who display excellence in their work. Awards were presented to them and other honorees at a May 7 gathering at the Fieldstone Auditorium in the North Rockland Central School District.
Cliff Loretto
“Mr. Loretto’s ability to inspire students is unmatched,” Principal Deborah Gallant wrote in her nomination letter. “His innovative teaching methods cater to a variety of learning styles, ensuring that each student has the opportunity to develop both their musical talents and their personal growth. Through a combination of hands-on instruction, performance opportunities and personalized feedback, Mr. Loretto has not only developed technically skilled musicians, but also nurtured well- rounded individuals with a strong sense of confidence and discipline.”
Superintendent Brian Monahan agreed, writing in his nomination letter: “He knows that music activities also promote creativity, emotional expression and a deeper understanding of the world. Mr. Loretto simply makes learning all aspects about music fun and joyful for his students. Whether it’s bringing a Squishmallow named ‘Claudia the Beet’ to class to help students learn about musical beats, teaching them folk dances or allowing them to be puppeteers to practice singing and elementary level drama, his creativity is unrivaled."
Michelle Thompson
“Whether coordinating monthly meetings, fundraisers, rallying volunteers or advocating for student needs, Ms. Thompson approaches every task with positivity, integrity and focuses on what’s best for our students and staff,” Principal Julia Downey wrote in her nomination letter. “Under her leadership, she organizes many programs and activities that promote their goal of ‘enriching every child’s educational experience.’ She does all this while working full-time and raising three children. Her contributions have left a lasting mark on our school.”
In his nomination letter, Superintendent Monahan wrote: “There have been book fairs, fall festivals, holiday-related activities, a multitude of assembly programs and speakers, faculty recognition and, most recently, the first ever golf outing, which are consistently successful because of her oversight, dependability and professionalism. Without a doubt, Ms. Thompson makes Otisville a better place because of her commitment to the school’s students, faculty and staff.”