Barbara Steinhauser Kalinowski Memorial Scholarship

Elementary school was a challenging time for me because I struggled with learning. While my twin sister seemed to understand the lessons quickly and needed no help while doing her homework, I did. I often needed more time and support to keep up. These difficulties became more noticeable when I started second grade. During my early years in school, I found certain subjects especially difficult. I was very quiet and shy so I just remember sitting quietly trying so hard to understand and read like all my classmates were starting to. I had trouble understanding concepts as quickly as other students. I often became frustrated and sad when I could not complete assignments as easily as my classmates. At times, I felt embarrassed about needing extra help, but I continued to work hard and do my best. After second grade, I began receiving additional support in various subjects. This extra help came from teachers and specialist who worked with me or in small groups. They used different teaching methods to help me understand lessons and build important skills. This time allowed me to ask questions, practice concepts, and learn at a pace that was more comfortable for me. Although receiving extra help was not always easy because I did miss class time during my pull-outs it made a significant difference in my education. Soon, I became more confident in my abilities and started to see improvement in my schoolwork. The support I received taught me that everyone learns differently and that asking for help is a strength, not a weakness. My teachers encouraged me to stay positive and reminded me that progress takes time and effort. Today, I am grateful for the support I received during my time in the West Babylon School District. The teachers and specialist who helped me have played an important role in my growth and development. While my learning struggles were challenging, they helped shape me into a stronger and more resilient person. I'm proud to be a member of the National Honor Society, an achievement that reflects the growth I have made both academically and personally. Reaching this milestone has shown me how far I have come from the shy girl who once struggled to keep up in the classroom. My experiences have also inspired my future career goals. I plan to attend Cortland University and become a special education teacher. I want to give back the same support, patience, and encouragement that once was given to me. I hope to make a positive difference in the lives of students facing challenges.

One of the most influential experiences in elementary school was when I struggled with anxiety. I remember being in fourth grade feeling overwhelmed in the classroom, especially during test and assignments. I also hated being called out to answer questions. I worried about making mistakes and became nervous when I had to complete work under pressure. As a result, I sometimes had difficulty demonstrating what I actually knew. I felt like I was going to pass out or my stomach would start to hurt. Fortunately, Mrs. Mercorella in Santapogue Elementary School recognized that I was struggling and took the time to support me. Instead if viewing my anxiety as a weakness, she saw my potential and worked with me to build my confidence. She encouraged me when I felt discouraged, listened when I needed someone to talk to, and helped create a learning environment where I felt safe and understood. As I too was trying to figure out what was happening and what I was feeling. With her support and additional educational accommodations, including extra time on test, I was able to manage my anxiety more effectively. These accommodations gave me the opportunity to focus on demonstrating my knowledge rather than worrying about the clock. Over time, I became more confident in my abilities and began to enjoy learning again. This experience changed my education. It taught me that every student learns differently and that the right support can make a tremendous difference. I learned firsthand how important it is for teachers to be patient, compassionate, and willing to meet students where they are. Without the encouragement and understanding I received, my time in school could have been very different. The impact of several teacher's support that I received throughout my school career has inspired me to pursue a career in education. I want to become the kind of teacher who helps students overcome challenges and recognize their own strengths. I understand what it feels like to struggle with anxiety and self-doubt, and I hope to use that experience to connect with and support future students. I want every child in my classroom to feel valued, capable, and empowered to succeed. As I continue my education, I carry with me the lessons I learned from that experience. My challenges taught me resilience, and the support I received showed me the powerful role teachers play in shaping students' lives. I will forever be grateful for the support I received.

When people look at me today they see a student athlete a DECA President and someone preparing to study Mechanical Engineering in college. What they do not see is the quiet kid who struggled to speak up and work with others when he was younger. In elementary school group work did not come easily to me. I was shy and often nervous about talking to other students. While many of my classmates had no problem raising their hands sharing ideas or making new friends I usually stayed quiet. I worried about saying the wrong thing or embarrassing myself. Because of this I sometimes missed opportunities to participate and learn from the people around me. Looking back I realize that my biggest challenge was not academics but finding the confidence to communicate and work with others. One of the teachers who helped me overcome this challenge was my kindergarten teacher Barbara Kalinowski. Even though I was only five years old I still remember how patient and encouraging she was. Kindergarten is filled with small lessons that may seem unimportant later in life but mean everything to a child. I remember struggling to remember my lunch number at the beginning of the year. Instead of getting frustrated she calmly helped me practice it until I could confidently say it on my own. More importantly she encouraged me to interact with my classmates and participate in classroom activities. She never forced me out of my comfort zone but instead gave me the support and patience I needed to grow. Mrs. Kalinowski celebrated effort just as much as success. She made every student feel valued and understood that learning happens at a different pace for everyone. Her classroom was a place where mistakes were accepted and where students felt safe trying new things. Because of her encouragement I slowly became more comfortable speaking up and working with others. That lesson stayed with me throughout my education. As I got older I became more involved in school activities and challenged myself to step outside of my comfort zone. I joined DECA eventually becoming President of my chapter. I played varsity baseball where communication and teamwork are essential. I also worked my way up to a management position at a local pizzeria where I interact with customers and coworkers every day. None of these experiences would have been possible if I had never learned to overcome my fear of speaking up. This fall I plan to attend college and pursue a degree in Mechanical Engineering with a focus on automotive engineering. Ever since I was young I have been fascinated by cars and how they work. Engineering will allow me to combine creativity problem solving and teamwork to create innovative solutions. The confidence and perseverance I developed throughout my education will help me succeed in this field. Although many years have passed since kindergarten I still carry the lessons Mrs. Kalinowski taught me. Something as simple as helping a student remember a lunch number may seem small but her patience and belief in her students left a lasting impact. She helped me gain confidence in myself and taught me that growth comes from effort and persistence. I am grateful for the difference she made in my life and I hope to honor her memory by approaching my future with the same kindness determination and willingness to help others that she showed every day.