We are thrilled to announce that Anthony Spado has been selected as the Rome City School District Teacher of the Year!
What began as an average school day for Rome Free Academy teacher Anthony Spado turned into a morning of celebration. As he was leading his students in a hands-on science lesson, Spado received an unexpected visit from Rome City School District Superintendent of Schools, Ms. Nerlande Anselme, Principal Andrew Barton, Rome Teachers Association representative Jerrad Buttenschon, and other colleagues, all of whom were there to present him with the prestigious award of Rome City School District Teacher of the Year for 2026.
The nomination process involved inviting the community to submit recommendations. RCSD employees, community members, parents, and students were all encouraged to nominate a teacher who represents excellence and positively impacts both students and the community. Among many outstanding educators in the district, one nomination stood out: Earth Science Teacher Anthony Spado from RFA.
“Mr. Spado is an exemplary teacher in our district,” his nominator, Julie Carpenter, wrote. “He provides a nurturing learning environment where students feel welcome and excited to learn. He truly cares about not only their academics, but their general well-being and attitude towards school and learning.” Carpenter also praised his innovative teaching style and his ability to maintain consistent communication with families.
For 22 years, Spado has made learning fun for his students by offering hands-on lessons and projects. He is continually seeking new ways to enhance their education. He also understands the importance of celebrating student success, rewarding his classes with parties to commemorate the end of a unit, or even a real-world phenomenon like the yearly Perihelion party.
Spado also excels in communication, sending bi-monthly emails to parents, keeping them up to date with test scores, upcoming quizzes, tests, and labs. His Google Classroom and Parent Square updates provided both students and parents with review materials and videos that clarify difficult concepts covered in class and on exams. He consistently goes above and beyond what is expected, offering up his free time for Regents review classes and makeup labs to ensure that every student has the opportunity to succeed in his class. “He genuinely wanted his students to perform to the best of their ability,” Carpenter shared.
While the impactful words of his nominator led to Spado’s recognition, they were not the only factor. The respect and admiration he earns from his colleagues further confirmed that he was truly deserving of the Teacher of the Year award.
Upon entering the classroom, Superintendent Anselme was the first to speak about Spado's impact within the Rome City School District, highlighting his achievements as an educator. Last year, Spado earned the top Earth & Space Regents scores. “It is a reflection of not just your skill,” Anselme remarked, “but also your commitment to excellence.” She continued to commend his dedication to his students, expressing gratitude for the safe and inclusive learning environment he has created. “Your students trust you, your colleagues admire you, and your impact reaches beyond these walls,” she emphasized. “You represent the very best of who we are and what we strive to be.”
Principal Barton also acknowledged Spado’s contributions to RFA by addressing the students in the class directly. “You’re learning from one of the best,” Barton stressed.
The accolades didn’t stop there. “He comes in every day with integrity, always looking out for the students’ best interest, and his colleagues’ best interest,” said Buttenschon during the presentation, which also included visits from RCSD Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction Jennifer Deperno, Director of Secondary Programs Melissa Sisco, and Executive Secretary to the Superintendent of Schools and District Clerk Sandra Russell,
As our district’s Teacher of the Year, Spado’s name will also be submitted to represent Rome City Schools as a candidate for the prestigious New York State Teacher of the Year honor.
Please join us in celebrating Anthony Spado for his outstanding contributions to education, his ability to inspire greatness, and the lasting impact he has on his students and colleagues.