Congratulations to Nancy Gratz - 2010 Founders' Cup Recipient

Congratulations to Middle School fifth grade and math teacher Nancy Gratz, who was named the recipient of the 2010 Founders' Cup for Teaching Excellence.  Presented annually by the Alumni Association, the Founders' Cup is based on nominations from all MKA constituencies and honors a full-time faculty member who exemplifies the highest levels of teaching, as well as contributing to the well-being of the MKA community, both in and out of school.

No stranger to accolades, Nancy is a former engineer with ten years of professional experience in the field of environmental and sanitary engineering.  She received the Buffalo Vanguard Business Award and was named to Who's Who in Entrepreneurial Women in 1990.

After changing careers, Nancy came to the MKA Middle School in 2002 and has been consistently nominated for the Founders' Cup by students, parents and fellow faculty members ever since. One colleague wrote "While Nancy’s work ethic is strong, so is her “joie de vivre.” Anyone in fifth grade can tell you that her classroom is a warm, fun place buzzing with equal parts of laughter and productivity.”  From parents, came comments such as: “She is a math genius and will make those who are on the fence about the subject feel passionate about it as well.”  And, "She has given my sons lifelong gifts ... confidence in themselves, a love of learning math and a great attitude about being in school. She really is a role model for all, a real definition of teaching excellence on so many levels.”

But perhaps for Mrs. Gratz, the most meaningful compliment may have come from one of her recent students: “ Last year I hated math, but this year Mrs. Gratz makes math not even feel like a school subject!"