Astarita, who is also a parent at the school, leads her students in a variety of projects and organizations, the group said. She is active with Habitat for Humanity, Dancing With Our Stars and Cupcake Wars for the benefit of Gilda’s Club and the American Cancer Society Relay for Life.
Eastchester High School PTA co-President Rita Mastroberardino said that it was Astarita’s accomplishments outside of the classroom that made her stand out above the rest.
“We are thrilled to have an opportunity to honor one of our beloved teachers, who is also a parent in our school,” she said. “Our honoree can be described as high energy, compassionate, engaging, loving, dedicated, smart and beautiful.”
Astarita was an integral part of the committee that ran this year’s successful Relay for Life, which raised more than $7,000 for the American Cancer Society.
“Her work outside of the classroom is what gets our attention and earns the esteem of the greater community, not just the PTA,” Mastroberardino said. “Her work and dedication has a positive impact on our students, as she sets the standard high for community service learning and giving of one’s self for others.”
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