Foundations and Social Advocacy

Department

Dear Committee Members:

It is a pleasure to write this letter of reference for Samantha Spagnola who completed her student
teaching experiences in the Homer Central School District and at TST BOCES in Ithaca, New
York. As her supervisor and instructor, I observed the many strengths Samantha brings to
teaching elementary students. Samantha worked closely with a special and general education
teacher in an inclusive second grade classroom and then moved on to assume the role of a special
education teacher in a self-contained classroom at the upper elementary level. Samantha was a
valued team member in both settings.

In Samantha’s first experience she quickly developed wonderful relationships with the teachers
and students. Frequently the host teacher commented on how Samantha was a “natural teacher.”
Samantha became acquainted with the needs of the students and then focused on developing
ELA and math lessons to meet those needs. She was especially keen at taking the content and
making it relevant to the students’ lives when teaching her science unit, and she developed
activities that required movement and peer collaboration. The students responded
enthusiastically to Samantha’s teaching and direction.

Samantha added additional teaching and management strategies to her repertoire working with
upper elementary students at Smith School. These students with challenging behavioral needs
have multiple needs and they require a teacher who is persistent with expectations but always
supportive, and Samantha demonstrated both support and persistence. Samantha found ways to
break down concepts to increase student understanding, provide engaging activities to peak
student interest, and to incorporate a variety of activities within each lesson. She taught a
Geography unit where she used places that students could relate to within the state of New York.
She used many visuals, along with activities that engaged students.

Samantha is professional, hard-working, and passionate about working with students. She
reflects on her teaching and uses feedback to continually improve. Samantha’s skills will allow
her to effectively teach students at all grade levels. Her colleagues will appreciate that she can
listen to others and offer valuable input. Samantha will be a welcomed addition to any school.

Cindy Moriarity

Cindy Moriarity, Ed.D.

IEC Undergraduate Field Coordinator
TSD/TDA Graduate Coordinator
1- 607 753-5526
moriarityc@cortland.edu

Cornish Hall, Room 1213 • P.O. Box 2000 • Cortland, NY 13045-0900

Phone: (607) 753-2447 • Fax: (607) 758-5007