LYME/OLD LYME — UPDATED 9/7: Lyme-Old Lyme Schools Superintendent Ian Neviaser announced at the All-Faculty and -Staff Convocation held Aug. 25, that Andrew Raucci (pictured above), who is the Instructional Technology Specialist at Lyme-Old Lyme Middle and High Schools, had been selected as Teacher of the Year.
Raucci has been with Lyme-Old Lyme Schools for eight years and is universally known as a friend to all. His willingness at all times to help, listen, give advice, and most of all, make others laugh was cited as one of the main reasons for the award.
He was also described as having navigated the numerous technology challenges related to the pandemic with a ‘can-do’ attitude, a calm demeanor, and a positive attitude.
Although most of Raucci’s work is with teachers, he also works with students at technology boot camps, the WLYM morning news broadcasts, ping-pong club, drone lessons and more.
Asked his reaction to receiving the award, Raucci told LymeLine exclusively, “Although it is a sincere honor to receive this recognition from my colleagues, to me this award is truly a team award. Anything I have done well in Lyme-Old Lyme Schools is merely a reflection of the talented, thoughtful, and kind people I’m fortunate enough to work with every day.”
He added, “I thank all of you for making this community so special for students and one another.”
At the same event, Patricia Aldrich (pictured above), who serves as Technology Facilitator at Lyme-Old Lyme Middle School, was named Employee of the Year. She has been with the District for seven years and a key reason behind her award is that she consistently goes above and beyond the call of duty.
Also, Aldrich is described as constantly seeking new challenges and knowledge to help students and staff excel. Her peers noted that she handles a wide range of issues, both small and large, but regardless of the nature of the issue, she never makes anyone feel as though their question is unimportant.
Her constant striving for improved job skills, a great attitude and remarkable work ethic were also identified by her peers as reasons for the award.