World language teacher Nicholas Orphanos was recognized for making Lenape welcoming for students of all languages or backgrounds.
According to district officials, Lenape High School world language teacher Nicholas Orphanos was recently recognized by New Jersey Education Association as an educator who makes the school and community a welcoming environment for all students, regardless of language or background.
Lenape math teacher Tom Tamburello, who nominated Orphanos for the award, said Orphanos is a Spanish teacher and speaker who teaches all levels of students, from accelerated to students with disabilities.
“Not only is he an excellent teacher, but he promotes diversity and inclusion,” Tamburello said.
Every year, Orphanos also helps to organize the World Language Olympics at Lenape.
According to Tamburello, during the event, students celebrate their diverse cultures, traditions and languages in a fun competition.
“The students are always excited and highly engaged in the event,” Tamburello said.
According to Tamburello, Orphanos also helped to bring a World Language speaking lab to the school’s media center, providing students and teachers with increased opportunities to speak their second languages.
“His classroom activities and lessons demonstrate his ability to be inclusive of all students, including those from diverse backgrounds,” Tamburello said.
Sponsored by NJEA and the Yankees Radio Network Spanish broadcast, Orphanos won two 100 level tickets to a Yankees game and had his name announced on the Yankees Radio Network Spanish broadcast.
“It was an exciting day to visit with the Yankees,” Orphanos said. “However, it was especially nice to be recognized and nominated by Tom Tamburello, a colleague who is so well respected. NJEA has made a goal of broadcasting with the Yankees Radio Spanish Network broadcast to spread the message of diversity and inclusivity in NJ public schools. I am proud to help spread that message here at LHS.”
