In Memory of Michael Dare-Gentile

Position: Technology TeacherSchool: North Main Street SchoolSchool District: Pleasantville Public SchoolsCity, State: Pleasantville, New JerseyAbout the Nominee: On October 4th, 2016, Michael Dare-Gentile passed away due to injuries suffered during an accident while riding his bike to work. We would like to extend our deepest condolences to his family, students and colleagues during this difficult time. The following text comes from his nomination, which was submitted July 2016.Michael Dare-Gentile was nominated by his principal, Teresa McGaney-Guy.Mr. Dare-Gentile is an incredibly dedicated teacher! He not only teaches technology – he assists teachers with integrating technology across all subjects. Each day, he starts the day with technology for students that come to school early. Mr. Dare-Gentile has countless talents and a passion for helping to transform a school environment to 1:1 devices. Not only does he teach students about technology, but he also teaches them about kindness, doing good things for others and making the world a better place. He is a positive influence in the school and a key player in the school's culture. For example, he went above and beyond to implement the school’s Apple and ConnectED grant. He was a key player in writing the grant, which equipped all students with an iPad and each staff member with a MacBook Air and iPad. In the 2015-2016 school year, he spent countless hours with the NMSS Apple Core Team and Apple Executives to make sure teachers and staff had a flawless transition to using Apple products.Mr. Dare-Gentile is an extremely effective employee with superior organizational skills. He gets the most out of his resources and works alongside all team members to meet deadlines. Additionally, he always completes tasks on time and with quality outcomes. Principal McGaney-Guy says that she was impressed by his initiative this year and his thirst for knowledge with the Apple project. Not only is Mr. Dare-Gentile highly intelligent, but he is also very hard-working. He has tackled every project assigned to him with enthusiasm and competence. He invariably understands exactly what a project is all about from the outset, and gets it done quickly and effectively. Mr. Dare-Gentile is a true example of an accountable and responsible employee, with a superior work ethic and a high degree of integrity. Most importantly, he uses his talent to serve the children of the Pleasantville school community. He is a valued member of the school community who loves technology and imparts his love for the subject to all students. He has made more than a difference; he has changed the way students and teachers use technology![nominee_videos nominee_email="dare-gentile.michael@pps-nj.us"]