As Staff Appreciation Week begins, Lehigh Valley Academy is proud to celebrate not just the impact our teachers make every day—but the recognition they are earning beyond our classrooms.
For the second year in a row, an LVA educator pursuing advanced studies has been honored by DeSales University’s School of Education—an incredible reflection of the passion, dedication, and lifelong learning that define our faculty.
A Continued Legacy of Recognition
This year, first grade teacher Steph Colacito has been awarded the Jean Baptiste de La Salle Award, while also graduating with her Master’s in Early Childhood Education this May.
Named after Jean-Baptiste de La Salle, the patron saint of teachers, this award recognizes educators who embody excellence in education, service, and leadership, making a lasting impact on their students and school communities.
At LVA, this commitment mirrors the heart of our International Baccalaureate approach—developing caring, reflective, and principled learners both inside and outside the classroom.
Building on Last Year’s Momentum
In 2025, fourth grade teacher Will Erwin received the Sister John Marie Award from DeSales University’s School of Education—another prestigious honor recognizing graduate students who demonstrate a deep passion for making a meaningful difference in the lives of their students.
Nominated by his university supervisor, Mr. Erwin was recognized for:
- Building strong, meaningful relationships with his students
- Creating engaging and thoughtful learning experiences
- Continuously reflecting and growing as an educator
DeSales noted that his energy and dedication are the kind that would make Sister John Marie proud—a testament to the impact he brings into his classroom each day.
The LVA Difference
While these are two distinct awards, together they tell a powerful story:
LVA educators are not only shaping student success—they are continually investing in their own growth to better serve their communities.
From pursuing advanced degrees to earning recognition for excellence, our teachers exemplify what it means to be lifelong learners—an essential value of both LVA and the IB framework.
As we celebrate Staff Appreciation Week, we also want to take a moment to extend our heartfelt thanks to every teacher, faculty member, and staff member at LVA. Your dedication, care, and hard work are the foundation of our students’ success and growth. From the classrooms to the offices to every corner of our school, your impact is seen and felt—and deeply appreciated.
Congratulations to both on these well-deserved honors. Your impact reaches far beyond the classroom—and we are proud to call you Jaguars!
Lehigh Valley Academy RCS 