The Ardsley PTA Proudly Presents Our
2019 Jenkins Award Winners:
The Ardsley PTA has been giving the Jenkins Awards since 1953. Winners receive a lifetime membership to the New York State PTA, and a donation in their names is made to the Jenkins Memorial Scholarship for Teacher Education. This scholarship fund was established by the New York State PTA in October 1946 in memory of Clifford N. Jenkins Jr., son of the president of the New York State PTA at the time, Margaret Jenkins, who went on to become National PTA president in the 1960s. The fund was intended as a living memorial to young people who lost their lives in World War II. The $3,000 scholarships are given each year to outstanding public high school seniors who plan to attend a public institution of higher learning in New York State to prepare for a teaching career.
David Chason — High School Science Teacher
David Chason has been a teacher in the Ardsley school district for over 30 years. During his tenure, he has taught many classes, including Earth Science, Physics, and AP Physics. He is also the curriculum leader for science at Ardsley High School, and he established the successful Science Olympiad Team. David has been a leader in the department, spearheading the creation of AP Physics and the Engineering program. With his support, Forensic Science was added as well as Meteorology. Using creative teaching methods and easy to understand demonstrations to explain complex concepts, he keeps the learning interesting.
HENRY LEONE — AHS Spanish Teacher, Track CoacH
Henry Leone has been a world language teacher of Spanish for over 16 years at AHS teaching all levels through AP. He has taken his students beyond the classroom traveling once to Spain, and he has lead seven trips to Costa Rica with over 130 Ardsley students. Henry has coached 29 seasons in Ardsley for Girls Cross Country, Winter track and Spring track. He has coached several students that were state championship competitors. In addition, a seasoned guitarist, you will often find Henry playing in the AHS band pit alongside students in the high school holiday concerts and theater productions.
JAIME MARCUS — High School English TeacheR
Jaime Marcus has taught English at both Ardsley Middle and High School since 2003. Jaime’s passion for teaching is evident through his creativity and risk-taking within the classroom. Most admirably, he prides himself on his relationships with his students. Whether it’s a current or past member of his classroom or even a participant in the numerous clubs he advises, Mr. Marcus allows all students to feel welcome. Helping with assignments, editing college essays, or just coming to chat, his constant support enables all students with the support to reach their full potentials. Jamie Marcus’ giving nature, enthusiasm, and kindness makes him the wonderful educator he is.
ROBERT MEYER — Community VolunteeR
Rob Meyer is the neighbor and friend that everyone loves to have in their community. He organized and coached soccer, baseball, and basketball. He is the unofficial neighborhood activities counselor inviting every child within miles to participate in giant kickball or manhunt games. As a doctor, he is available to his neighbors whenever they need medical advice, or a shoulder to cry on. When an Ardsley HS sophomore was diagnosed with a rare cancer, Rob became a part of his medical team by working along with his doctors and offering counsel to the boy’s friends and neighbors. On good days, he even took his young friend out for driving lessons allowing him to obtain his license between hospital stays.
PAUL MONTALI — Head Custodian, Mechanic AHS
Paul Montali has been the heartbeat behind nearly everything that happens in AHS for over 20 years. No project is too demanding for Paul. Staff, faculty, students, and the PTA rely heavily on his expertise. Most people overlook the school’s pristine hallways, plowed parking lots, shoveled walkways, and manicured sports fields. This is handled seamlessly thanks to Paul’s dedication and leadership, and he’s known for going the extra mile and inspiring others to do the same.
PAULINE REID — Ardsley Middle School NursE
As the Ardsley Middle School Nurse, Pauline Reid gives tender loving care to all that enter her office. Students, faculty members, and even parents - she makes everyone feel like they have a safe and comfortable place to go for care. With an uplifting word and a comforting manner, she offers her special kind of encouragement. Pauline also tends to students who have more severe or chronic health needs with compassion and dedication. Pauline is perfect for the middle school because she is a caring and nurturing at a time when many students are experiencing dramatic growth and physical change.
KAREN SARGIS — Concord Road First Grade TeacheR
Karen Sargis has been a significant presence in the Concord Road first grade wing for many years. Her passion and commitment to delivering a great educational experience is an inspiration. She is a mentor and leader within the school community, leveraging digital and traditional learning tools to enhance the learning experience. She thoughtfully partners with parents to assure that each child attains mastery of the academic materials and develops social and emotional skills. Karen stays connected to her students throughout their education and shows her support by always attending high school graduation.