The 6th Annual Excellence in Education Awards took place on May 3, 2025. Congratulation to Mrs Maruscak! She won the 7th & 8th Grade Teacher of the Year!
Nomination by a Parent:
I am pleased to recommend Ms. Maruscak as an exceptional middle school science teacher. Throughout her time at Notre Dame Academy she has demonstrated an outstanding commitment to fostering an inclusive and welcoming learning environment. Her classroom is a space where all students feel valued and supported.
Ms. Maruscak engages her students with exciting experiments and well-structured lessons that ignite their curiosity and passion for science. Her calm demeanor and encouraging nature empower students to take risks in their learning, helping them to grow both academically and personally. She is the teacher who is always there with an encouraging smiling and kind words to keep all students learning. She has a great way for connecting with all students and make them feel like they can accomplish anything in her class and out.
I have no doubt that Ms. Maruscak will continue to inspire and make a positive impact on her students’ lives for years to come. We are so lucky to have her at Notre Dame Academy!
Teacher/Student Comments:
Congratulations to Mrs. Maruscak on winning the Middle School Excellence in Education Award. It has been an honor to work alongside Eileen and as 8th grade homeroom teachers. Eileen is a very hard working, and dedicated teacher. She is always the first one in the building each day and is always willing to stay after school to help students but also pushes them to become independent thinkers and learners. As an educator, Eileen is able to push her students to be their best not only as students, but as kind, caring, compassionate and respectful young men and women. She strives to push her students academically in the classroom but also is able to relate to the students in making learning both enjoyable and fun. Congratulations Mrs. Maruscak! ~ Mr Bartosik
Mrs. Maruscak is a very kind hearted person and very welcoming! When ever I walk into her classroom she always puts a smile on my face. Mrs. Maruscak is very understanding and will always make sure a student is not falling behind. She is always there for me whenever I need to talk to her about anything! ~ Savannah Behr, 8th Grade
Ms. Maruscak is an amazing teacher who really, truly cares about her students. She always goes above and beyond to make sure we understand the material. She’s so funny and always willing to help, which makes her a true inspiration. I’ve been her student since fourth grade, and I’ve never had a better teacher. This award is totally deserving of her. ~ Cash Kirkby, 8th Grade
Mrs. Maruscak is a very fun teacher! She always jokes around and makes every student feel welcome and comforted! Everytime I go into her classroom she always makes me laugh even if I'm having a bad day. Mrs. Maruscak one hundred percent deserves this award. ~ Allyson Ybarra, 8th Grade
Mrs Maruscak is my favorite teacher at Notre Dame. She made me want to become a science teacher and built my love for science. I enjoy our laughs together and I'm so sad it's my last year with her. ~ Madelyn MartzMadelyn MartzMadelyn MartzMaddie Martz, 8th Grade
Video of the presentation
https://friendsforabetterbuffalo.com/