Maureen McGuire-Ortquist was recently recognized by New York State Senator Rob Rolison with a Educators Inspiring A Generation award through the New York State Senate Educator Recognition Program. The New York State Senate Educator Recognition Program identifies and honors the outstanding contributions of educators who go above and beyond in their commitment to student success, innovative teaching practices, and leadership in their educational communities.

Senator Rolison visited the Newburgh Enlarged City School District to personally present the award and celebrate Mrs. McGuire-Ortquist’s impact on students and educators across the district. As an exceptional educator and math coach, Mrs. McGuire-Ortquist approaches mathematics through a lens of equity and opportunity—ensuring all students have access to high-quality instruction that builds conceptual understanding, procedural fluency, and real-world application. Her work empowers students to develop critical thinking and financial literacy skills that support informed decision-making and expand future opportunities.

As an instructional leader, Mrs. McGuire-Ortquist supports teachers and staff across elementary schools while helping strengthen mathematics instruction districtwide. She is recognized for building trust among students, educators, administrators, and families, modeling effective practices, and fostering a culture of continuous growth and shared responsibility.

Joined and celebrated by Superintendent Dr. Jackielyn Manning Campbell, Board of Education President, Mr. John Doerre, administrators, teachers, and students, and her husband, the award was a surprise for the long-time teacher turned instructional coach. In her nomination for the award, Superintendent, Dr. Jackielyn Manning Campbell shared, "Maureen is a true systems thinker who consistently sees the whole picture while remaining deeply engaged in the day-to-day work that drives meaningful change. She thoughtfully aligns her strategies with best practices in mathematics education, ensuring that instruction is research-based, purposeful, and impactful. As a math coach, she has a profound influence on student learning across our elementary schools, supporting teachers and instructional staff in ways that strengthen classroom practice and improve outcomes for all learners."

Through her passion, professionalism, and unwavering dedication to students and colleagues, Mrs. McGuire-Ortquist exemplifies the very spirit of the Educators Inspiring A Generation award and the district's Goldback Standard as she continues to make a lasting impact throughout the Newburgh community.

Additional photos of the recognition can be found by clicking this link.