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Blue Mountain Middle School Counselor Honored as a Hero in Education

Blue Mountain Middle School guidance counselor Deborah Cardenas was among 13 people honored on Dec. 10, 2024 by the Westchester-East Putnam Region PTA, which named its 2024 Heroes in Education during the organization’s Winter Conference.

Blue Mountain Middle School guidance counselor Deborah Cardenas was named a Hero in Education.

The teachers, administrators, local community members, parents and volunteers were recognized for honoring the overall purpose of the PTA — “to make every child’s potential a reality by engaging and empowering families and communities to advocate for all children,” according to the WEPR.

Cardenas was nominated by the Blue Mountain Middle School PTA for placing students at the heart of her work.

“As a guidance counselor, she fosters a safe, inclusive and supportive environment where students feel heard, valued and encouraged,” the nomination said. “She tailors her counseling strategies to meet the diverse needs of Blue Mountain Middle School’s students, helping them navigate academic, emotional and social challenges. Her commitment to mental health and well-being is always a priority. At a time when student mental health is more crucial than ever, Deb has proven to be a compassionate and proactive advocate.

“With years of service to the Hendrick Hudson community, Deb’s unwavering commitment exemplifies what it means to be an educator and advocate. Her work leaves a lasting impact on students, helping them grow into confident and capable individuals. She leads by example, demonstrating empathy, integrity, and perseverance.”

Upon learning that she had been recognized, a humbled Cardenas said: “This is truly an honor.”

“Deborah Cardenas is a valued member of the Blue Mountain Middle School staff,” Blue Mountain Principal Anthony Giovinazzi said. “She is an advocate for all students, providing them with a safe, supportive, inclusive environment that allows them to thrive. She is always committed to meeting both her students’ academic and social/emotional needs.”

Cardenas was honored alongside the following people, who were also named Heroes in Education:

Andrea Hamilton, Principal, Alice E Grady Elementary School, Elmsford PTA

Glenn Hintze, Community Member, Somers Middle School

James Thorpe, Faculty, Greenburgh Central School District

Jessica Veissy, Somers Library Director, Town of Somers

Kathy Cucchiarella, Chairwoman of Partners In Prevention, Town of Somers

Kristin Pascuzzi, Faculty, Port Chester Middle School

Maia Hood, Faculty, Alice E Grady Elementary School. Elmsford PTA

Melissa Kozusko, PTA Unit Officer, Dobbs Ferry PTSA

Meredith Jaffess-Caputo, Faculty, Mount Vernon High School

Dr. Michael Wszloek, Faculty Member, Charles E. Gorton High School PTSA

Dr. Raymond Blanch, Former Superintendent, Somers Central School District

Robin Brumfield, Past Yonkers Council of PTSA President, Yonkers City School District