Liberty School Staff Honored by Sullivan County School Boards Association

Two members of the Liberty Central School District will be recognized next month for their outstanding contributions to education and the school community.

High school math teacher Edward Lare will receive the Outstanding Educator Award, while longtime district employee Mary Chanov will be honored with the Outstanding District Employee Award.

“These two individuals embody what it means to be a Liberty Redhawk, with dedication to making Liberty a great place to learn,” said Superintendent Dr. Patrick Sullivan.

Edward Lare: Excellence in Education
Mr. Lare has been teaching at Liberty for four years. Nominated by High School Principal Stephen Matuszak, he was recognized for his “extraordinary commitment to excellence in education and his unwavering dedication to his students’ success.”

Mr. Matuszak highlighted Lare’s personalized teaching methods that encourage student ownership, creativity, and engagement across all learning levels. Lare recently enrolled in a coding course through Siena College to integrate technology into his curriculum, reflecting his focus on equipping students with 21st-century skills.

Beyond the classroom, Lare mentors students, supports extracurricular activities, and fosters an inclusive school culture. “Many students have shared how Edward’s encouragement and support have made a lasting impact on their lives,” Matuszak wrote.

Lare said he is humbled to receive the honor. “It has always been a privilege working at Liberty with all of the dedicated staff members, supportive administration, and an incredible mentor, who all continuously inspire me to be the best teacher that I can be,” he said.

Mary Chanov: Dedication Beyond Duty
Ms. Chanov has served Liberty for 25 years in roles including substitute, teacher aide, cafeteria monitor, and, for the past decade, cleaner. Dr. Sullivan praised her “dedication, professionalism, and compassion,” noting her commitment to student and staff well-being and her efforts to maintain safe, welcoming school facilities.

Chanov often works weekends and after hours to ensure extracurricular activities run smoothly and the school environment remains in top condition. “These small but thoughtful actions highlight her attention to detail and her genuine care for the environment in which we all work and learn,” Sullivan wrote.

A staple presence in common areas, Chanov is known for her kindness and support, helping foster a nurturing community for students. She will retire in January and described receiving the award as “an honor and a privilege,” adding that her career at Liberty has been deeply meaningful.

Award Presentation
The awards will be presented at 5 p.m. Monday, Oct. 6, during the SCSBA annual awards dinner and meeting at the Beechwoods Clubhouse at the Villa Roma in Callicoon.