Part 5: Close Up Radio Welcomes Back Education Advocate Maureen Santora

LONG ISLAND CITY, NY - Maureen Santora has dedicated her life to education. She also embraced education professionally, as a teacher since 1967 who only retired a few years ago. There was a small gap while she raised her four children, three of whom went into the education field as well. Maureen believes the first, best, and most constant teacher any child can have is their parent.

Maureen has been a vocal advocate for education and is a notable expert in the field. She supports families, students and other professionals in shaping curriculum, sharing effective methods, and creating programs and policies. She made another notable contribution to education when she established The Christopher Santora Educational Scholarship Fund in honor of her son, who was a history major, then a substitute teacher and a firefighter. Sadly, Christopher passed away in the September 11th national tragedy.

“He wanted to be a firefighter from the youngest age. So, we decided to honor him in a way that would help other students pursue their dreams too. Children need to hear that nothing should stand in the way of achieving what you wish for.” Over these past 20 years, the scholarship fund has endowed about three-quarters of a million dollars at many levels and continues to make a difference for high school students.

Maureen has particular expertise in early childhood education. She wishes we could get back to basics, and teaching geared to the most intelligent students. Maureen says teachers know better than anyone else just how kids learn.

Maureen also encourages parents to take a more active role in their child’s education, at the home and school levels.

For more information on Maureen’s work or the Christopher Santora Educational Scholarship Fund, please email her, maureensantora@yahoo.com