Elmont staff and community leaders earn SCOPE Education Services 2026 Awards
Elmont Union Free School District is proud to announce that five of its nominees received awards and recognition at the SCOPE Education Services 2026 Award Dinner on March 23. These individuals were selected for their outstanding dedication and commitment to strengthening the Elmont community and helping it reach its fullest potential.
Longtime Elmont resident of over 25 years and Board of Education member for six years, Board President Tiffany Capers, received a School Board Service Award. She and her husband proudly raised their daughter in the Elmont and Sewanhaka school districts. Mrs. Capers has served over 15 years in PTA leadership roles, consistently advocating for students and families. Her commitment to community service also includes roles as treasurer of the Elmont PAL and leadership positions with the Argo Civic Association and Girl Scouts of Nassau County. Her passion for community advocacy and student success continues to positively impact the Elmont schools.
Covert Avenue School Assistant Principal Valerie Donoghue, who has served in her role for 30 years, received an Administrator Service Award. She is recognized as an instructional leader who effectively uses data-driven insights to guide decision-making, strengthen instructional practices and support teachers in their professional growth. Through the implementation of evidence-based strategies, Mrs. Donoghue works collaboratively with staff to enhance teaching and learning across classrooms. Her thoughtful leadership, commitment to student achievement and focus on continuous improvement have made a meaningful impact on the Covert Avenue School community and the district as a whole.
Laura Karmin, a teacher in the ABA Special Education Department for 13 years, received a Teacher Service Award. She consistently goes beyond expectations to meet the unique needs of her students, leading with compassion and a caring heart. Ms. Karmin generously volunteers her time to ensure students feel supported, safe and valued. Her strong commitment to Crisis Prevention Intervention is evident through both her consistent application of CPI strategies in her classroom and her leadership in providing professional development to colleagues, ensuring challenging behaviors are managed in a safe and respectful manner. Through her professionalism and empathy, Ms. Karmin has made a meaningful and lasting impact on the lives of Elmont students and the school community.
Diane Tool, a purchasing agent for 28 years, received a Support Staff Award for consistently going above and beyond in her role. She plays a vital part in supporting the daily operations of the district by purchasing supplies, instructional materials, technology and contracted services while ensuring all purchases align with approved budgets. Mrs. Tool works collaboratively with the business office, technology department, facilities and operations, principals and program administrators to meet district needs. She also trains staff on purchasing procedures, online financial systems and compliance requirements. Through her careful oversight of procurement, competitive bidding and audit documentation, Mrs. Tool ensures the district operates efficiently, responsibly and in full compliance with all regulations.
Additionally, Claudine Hall, president of the Jamaica Square Improvement League, received a Community Service Award. Mrs. Hall has devoted nearly four decades to serving the Elmont community through the Jamaica Square Improvement League, a civic association committed to supporting local students and families. A lifelong Elmont resident and a graduate of Clara H. Carlson School, Mrs. Hall remains deeply connected to the district she once attended. Each year, she works tirelessly to provide backpacks and school supplies to students in need and consistently attends Board of Education meetings to ensure students are supported and represented. Inspired by her own childhood and raised by a single mother after the loss of her father, Mrs. Hall’s compassion and dedication have guided her lifelong commitment to ensuring that no child in Elmont goes without.
The district extends sincere congratulations to all the award recipients.
