The Rome City School District continues its Rome is Home: Progress in Action series by highlighting recent accomplishments under Pillar 3 of its Strategic Plan: Empower Success Through Access and Support of our Strategic Plan, and the district's efforts to recognize excellence, celebrate service, and strengthen a culture that supports student success.

During the 2024–2025 school year, the district established its annual Teacher of the Year program to honor outstanding instructional excellence, starting with the inaugural Teacher of the Year, Amanda Bevilacqua of John E. Joy Elementary School. Bevilacqua was recognized for her passion for teaching, ability to inspire, and unwavering support for both students and colleagues.

For the 2025–2026 school year, Anthony Spado of Rome Free Academy received the honor, a teacher who continues to nurture a learning environment where students feel welcome and excited to learn.

Both educators were nominated to represent the district in the New York State Teacher of the Year program, with Spado advancing to the second round of the statewide selection process.

Another key initiative of the district has been #RomeRisers, which transformed the former Staff Spotlight into a monthly recognition program celebrating both students and staff. #RomeRisers highlights individuals who demonstrate leadership, perseverance, academic achievement, service, innovation, and kindness while showcasing the positive work taking place across the district.

Dr. Shaun Carney, Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources and Strategic Initiatives, shares that these initiatives reflect the district's commitment to investing in its people.

"A strong school district is built on strong people. When we intentionally recognize excellence, celebrate dedication, and honor service, we reinforce the culture that attracts, supports, and retains exceptional educators and staff. Initiatives like Teacher of the Year, our tenure and retirement recognitions, and #RomeRisers are more than celebrations. They reflect our commitment to valuing the people who make a difference in the lives of students every day. Investing in our people is one of the most important investments we can make in the future of the Rome City School District."

The district has also continued to honor employee milestones through Board of Education tenure recognitions and annual retirement celebrations. Since 2024, more than 70 employees have earned tenure, while 65 retirees have been honored for their years of dedicated service to the Rome City School District.

Rome is Home is more than a slogan—it reflects our shared commitment to creating a school district where every student, every employee, and every family has the opportunity to thrive. Together, we are turning that commitment into Progress in Action.

To learn more about our culture of recognition and the “Rome is Home: Progress in Action” series, please visit: https://www.romecsd.org/page/rcsd-progress-in-action