Canon-McMillan Intermediate
Teacher Wins $ 500
Canon-McMillan is thrilled to recognize Erin Stankus, a Canon-McMillan North Strabane Intermediate Teacher, for being selected as the recipient of a $ 500 Teacher Appreciation Week classroom giveaway.
American Fidelity, a supplemental insurance and benefits administration company specializing in the education sector, gave this surprise as part of an initiative to support teachers who continue to go above and beyond. Stankus was selected for her ability to inspire others and her unwavering commitment to her students.
“ This recognition means a great deal to me,” said Stankus.“ Teaching 6th grade math is a dream come true, and seeing my students grow— both academically and with their confidence— is what drives me. To be recognized in this way feels incredibly rewarding and reminds me the hard work, patience and heart I put into the classroom every day truly matters.”
Stankus has been a part of the Canon-McMillan school community for 17 years, having spent 13 years at South Central Elementary before relocating to North Strabane Intermediate four years ago. She holds a degree in English and Theater from Washington & Jefferson College, a Master’ s in Elementary Education from California University of Pennsylvania( Now PennWest) and a second Master’ s in Mathematics Education from Western Governors University.
She said,“ What I really love is watching those lightbulb moments happen— when a student who thought they
‘ weren’ t good at math’ suddenly gets it or when a quiet kid finds their voice during a math discussion. That shift from doubt to belief is magical. After 17 years, I’ m still learning too. Teaching keeps me sharp, reflective and creative. It’ s a profession where you never really plateau because the students keep changing, and I evolve with them.”
The giveaway totaled over $ 500 in classroom materials and supplies. This bundle included 48 packs of 1-subject notebooks, 36 dry-erase whiteboards and markers, construction paper, glue sticks, pencils, multiple crayon packs, pens and more.
Since she uses whiteboards almost daily in her math instruction classes, she said that having new ones will be exciting for her students. Stankus said that she goes through a large number of markers and glue sticks each year as well, so the extra supplies will be helpful when those items begin to run low throughout the school year.
“ This award reaffirms my belief in the power of teaching and the impact we can have when we meet students where they are and help them see their true capabilities,” said Stankus.“ It also inspires me to continue learning, growing and showing up for my students with the same energy and belief in their potential.”
Stankus plans to share some of the materials with her colleagues who need extra supplies, as the 2025-2026 school year is just around the corner. anon-Mac CANON-MAC SCHOOL DISTRICT NEWS
40 CANON-MAC