On February 16, 2003 the Northside School of Levittown sadly lost a very dynamic and beloved member of their family. Maria Meadows was not only a highly educated and specialized professional who taught first and second grade children in extended readiness class, but also the devoted mother of Frank, a graduate student and teacher's assistant at Rutgers University, and a cherished friend of Northside's teachers, parents and children.

Maria was an advocate for children everywhere, especially for the many young children with learning, social, or physical disabilities. She fought to find answers and to further educate herself so that she could be a resource and support system for her pupils and their parents. The more challenging the child, the more Maria fought for justice.

Maria received a bachelor's of arts degree from Mount St. Mary College in elementary education and English; master's degree in special education from Fordham University in 1970; and went on to earn a curriculum instruction degree from the University of Carolina in 1976. From 1968-1969, Maria taught second grade in Yorktown Heights, NY and worked with primary level handicapped children at the Kennedy Center in New York City. In 1972 she became supervisor of counselors for emotionally disturbed and mentally retarded children at the YMHA in Little Neck, NY. From 1970 to 1975, she taught the mentally retarded at P.S.115 in Queens. She continued this work in North Carolina until 1979 and in 1983 back on LI, Maria became a volunteer at the Montessori School in Seaford and a substitute teacher in special education. At that point, Maria was hired at Northside School where she taught extended readiness classes for almost 15 years. Maria's warmth, compassion, and professionalism were appreciated by Northside's school community as well as educators throughout Nassau County. On June 10, 2002, CHADD (Children Having Deficit Disorder) of Nassau County presented Maria Meadows with the "Educator of the Year Award" as letters by the parents were written to nominate her for "Educator of the Year" spoke of her kindness, patience, gentle guidance, and persistence in helping students recognize and reach their potential. Mrs. Meadows has touched many families in her career. CHADD extended their appreciation in a ceremony at which Maria was awarded a plaque, congratulating her on being a "Skillful Professional." In addition, Mrs. Meadows was selected for inclusion in Who's Who Among America's Teachers, 2002. Her biography was published with those of a select five percent of the nation's best teachers.

As a friend, Maria was the essence of compassion and duty. She showed great integrity and loyalty and was proud of her family. As a sister, she admired her brother, Will, and his accomplishments as a physician; a devoted daughter who bragged about her talented Mom. However, the light of Maria's life was her son, Frank. Whenever she spoke about him she had such a proud gleam in her eyes. He was truly the joy of her life and she loved him deeply and dearly.

Maria Meadows will be greatly missed as an educator, mother, daughter, sister, colleague, and a friend. Her untimely passing is a great loss to all whose lives she has touched. She will remain in our hearts forever.