May 30, 2012 THE VILLADOM TIMES III • Page 15 Four teachers recognized for their achievements (continued from page 14) “When one thinks of Jason Gangi ‘positive energy’ comes to mind,” said Principal Nicholas Capuano of the junior high honoree, who has only been in the district for three years and this year took on the challenge to work with the seventh graders in the study skills class addressing math issues. “Jason is a teacher that genuinely cares about the students. He is patient yet firm. Here is an individual that gives up his lunch to work with students to organize their notebook. He is a good listener and just enjoys being with students. He can take complex information such as the parts of a flower and break it down so students can understand and can relate to it,” Capuano noted. Capuano called Varjian, who has been at Midland Park High School for 24 years, “the pillar in the math department” and “one of our tireless humanitarians on the staff.” Varjian collaborated with other major organizations such as the National Honor Society and the Interact Club to spearhead community service activities benefiting such organizations as the LOVE Fund, Emanuel Cancer Society or the food pantry. Capuano credits Varjian with bringing about a new level of school spirit to the building this year. This includes: • providing score cards during the baseball/softball games • collecting soup and food drives during the Thanksgiving holiday • Organizing toy and coat drives during the winter holidays • Playing an integral role in raising money for a bench in memory of Matt Sayles The honorees were selected by a local school district committee. Each public school district may select one teacher or educational services professional per school for the honor.