Hampton Bays Elementary School teacher Frank Mancuso has earned the title of Suffolk Zone Elementary Physical Education Teacher of the Year. The longtime educator was recognized for his commitment to excellence during a Board of Education meeting at the high school on April 9.

At the board meeting, those recognizing Mr. Mancuso’s contributions to the district included District Superintendent Lars Clemensen, Elementary School Principal Marc Meyer, Health, Physical Education and Athletics Director Drew Walker – who nominated him for the award – and fellow physical education teacher Theresa Carey.

“Mr. Mancuso has been a leader at the elementary school, in the physical education department and within the Hampton Bays district in developing a quality physical education program that is always evolving and improving,” Mr. Walker wrote in his nomination letter. “I strongly recommend Mr. Frank Mancuso for the Elementary Physical Education Teacher of the Year for his commitment to physical education and his desire to make it an integral part of the school and community.”

Mr. Meyer, who said during the board meeting that Mr. Mancuso “revolutionized physical education in Hampton Bays,” also said that the teacher’s commitment to providing physical education and enacting integral and innovative programs has been a boon to the community. He mentioned particularly the bike program, ballroom dancing, tennis, golf, and most importantly, his work with physically challenged children.

“Frank Mancuso has excelled in every area of physical education instruction,” he wrote. “My personal favorite area is to see Frank teach physically challenged students. The amazing lessons these students participate in always makes me stop and spend a few minutes watching these innovative classes. What greater tribute to his love and dedication of teaching can there be than the fact that two of his own children have been inspired to become practicing teachers and coaches?”

According to Mr. Walker, Mr. Mancuso will be recognized for his achievements at the Suffolk Zone Conference in November 2013 at Sachem North High School. Winning Suffolk Zone Elementary Physical Education Teacher of the Year puts Mr. Mancuso in contention for the New York State Teacher of the Year Award.