Michael Cartolano - one of H. Frank Carey High School's most popular and well-respected teachers - was named the school's Teacher of the Year, an honor bestowed at the Sewanhaka Central High School District's Opening Day Ceremonies recently. Cartolano, a long-time art teacher and frequent activity advisor, was presented his plaque by district superintendent Dr. George Goldstein following a tender yet humorous large-screen video summary of his accomplishments well appreciated by an audience of the district's 650-plus teachers.

As Cartolano's video tribute was presented, praise from colleagues poured forth from the large screen. Carey's esteemed nurse, Angela Maggio, commented that Mr. "C' was so "approachable, and always able and willing to listen." School Principal Doug Monaghan noted that Cartolano has a "fine, quiet unassuming leadership style." Writing lab facilitator Terry Rolla summed up the feelings of all: "Mike sets a challenge for these students and they rise to it."

Toward the end of the presentation, Monaghan appeared again on the screen, and gave a warm tribute. Tongue in cheek, Monaghan then offered his observation that Mr. C and the actor Nicky Katt - who plays Harry Senate, also a teacher, on the hit Fox television show, Boston Public - had a striking facial similarity. Then, a small clip from Boston Public was shown, and when Katt's face came up, it was slowly morphed into Mr. C's! The house came down with gentle laughter and warm appreciation.

Others who attested to Cartolano's fine talents were art chairman Mr. Ron Lopez, art teachers Ronny Lipitz and Jonathan Kaufman, math teacher Rob Pontecorvo and former student Kelvin Loh, among others.

Later in the video, Cartolano took in the accolades in his usual self-effacing and disarming style. Said Mr. C: "I just want the students to come back and say, 'I was wanted here; Carey was a positive experience.'"

Towards the end of the day's activities, a number of Carey teachers were awarded district Mini Grants - monetary awards ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars to help develop innovative teaching techniques and purchase new equipment. Among the winners were Carey faculty members Dr. Gail Laoria, Joan Chieffo, Pam Gardella, Marialana Piccolo-Kreutz, Sophia Suzzi-Valli and Richard Snyder.