In June, CHADD (Children Having Attention Deficit Disorder) of Nassau County presented Maria Meadows with the Educator of the Year Award at their monthly meeting. Meadows has taught first and second extended readiness classes at Northside Elementary School for the past 14 years. In addition, Meadows has been selected for inclusion in Who's Who Among America's Teachers 2002.

As a member of CHADD (Children Having Attention Deficit Disorder), Meadows brought the parents of her many students to the meetings with her. The parents learned about dealing with attention deficit and helping their children who have learning difficulties. They attended education forums and parent workshops together.

CHADD of Nassau County received numerous letters from families Meadows has touched in her professional career. Letters written to nominate her for "Educator of the Year" spoke of kindness, patience, gentle guidance and persistence in helping students recognize and reach their potential. Meadows was awarded a plaque at a special presentation in Bellmore on June 10. CHADD extended their appreciation at the ceremony and congratulated her on being the "skillful professional" that she is. Additionally, Meadows was recommended by a successful former Northside student, who herself has been cited in Who's Who Among American High School Students. Meadows was nominated as the one teacher from the student's entire academic experience who was considered outstanding in making a different in that student's life. As a result, Meadow's biography has been published with those of a select five percent of the nation's best teachers in the seventh edition of Who's Who Among America's Teachers, 2002.

The Northside "family" is very proud of Meadows and her accomplishments. They congratulate her on her honors and recognition.