Susan DeRosa, a fifth grade teacher at William S. Covert School in South Hempstead, is a recipient, along with Alicia Miller, a physical education teacher at Wilson School, of the 2007-2008 Sister Kathleen Waters Master Educator Award.

DeRosa has been an educator for 12 years. She has spent the last nine teaching at Covert School in the second, fourth and fifth grades. Over the years, she has presented several Professional Development workshops, has served as a mentor to newly-hired teachers, and was the Rockville Centre Summer Program Principal for three years. Today, she continues to support the Summer Program as a consultant.

Darren Raymar, principal of Covert, said, "Susan is a dear friend and colleague. Her innate ability to both teach and connect with children continually amazes me. She is one of the finest teachers that I have ever known and I am proud to work with such a gifted, caring educator."

Michelle DeMartino, a colleague at Covert said, in a written statement, that the staff, students and parents of Covert School are "thrilled" that DeRosa has received this prestigious award. "She embodies all that a teacher should be through her dedication as a professional. She has the innate ability to read all children, connect with them through her dynamic teaching style and foster respect among students, colleagues and parents. Susan DeRosa is truly admired by all and deserves the 'Master Educator' title."