When Alanna O’Donnell walked into her classroom in Queens on Friday, she never imagined she would be met with a surprise $25,000 check. Recognized for her remarkable dedication to her special needs students, O’Donnell received the prestigious FLAG Award for Teaching Excellence.
“This is one of the most humbling experiences of my life. I’m just so grateful to be part of the PS 117 family,” O’Donnell expressed, as excitement filled the air.
At 46, O’Donnell stands out as one of the six honorees across New York City for this year’s FLAG Award. This award celebrates educators who inspire their students with creativity, passion, and unwavering commitment. Among over 1,600 nominations, she was recommended by one of her student’s parents, who quietly submitted her name for the honor.
With 12 years of experience in the city’s Department of Education, O’Donnell teaches in a special needs classroom where just one of her students can speak. Her commitment to these children at the Robin Sue Ward School for Exceptional Children is admirable. She has even created an urban farm and chicken coop, funded by a grant from the state’s Department of Agriculture and Markets, allowing her students to learn about responsibility and empathy—skills critical for their development.
Her classroom engages in hands-on activities, tending to herbs, vegetables, and flowers, while caring for seven hens and two baby chicks. The eggs produced by the hens are sold for $5 a dozen, with a growing demand for these “under market value” eggs.
“It took a little while for my students to adapt, but now they confidently handle and care for the chickens. They show the world that these kids have abilities and a voice,” O’Donnell beamed with pride. “There are many New Yorkers who couldn’t manage what my students do every day.”
Besides her work on the farm, O’Donnell actively takes her students on shopping trips to help them practice counting money and making transactions, boosting their self-confidence along the way. She also founded a group called the Pink Ladies during the pandemic, which offers a social outlet for current and former female students.
O’Donnell was under the impression she was attending a year-end celebration when Principal Christopher Duffy took the stage and revealed she was the recipient of the FLAG Award. Her expression of shock was priceless; she covered her face with her hands as the crowd erupted into applause.
Along with her $25,000 unrestricted cash prize, PS 117 received an additional $10,000 to support O’Donnell’s farming and Pink Lady initiatives.
“Wow, I can hardly believe this!” she exclaimed, clearly overwhelmed with gratitude. “It’s incredible to think that when one of us shines, we all shine.”
Learning that a parent had nominated her made this honor all the more special. “This has been one of the most humbling experiences of my life,” O’Donnell reflected.
She acknowledged the challenges her field presents but remains committed to being a voice for her students. Her dream includes providing them opportunities at farmers’ markets or local farms, helping them find meaningful work. “If I can be their voice, I will be, and I will help their parents be their voice, too,” she declared.
O’Donnell exemplifies the spirit of dedication and creativity in education, setting a remarkable example for others in the field. Her story serves as a reminder of the powerful impact teachers can have on their students’ lives, especially those facing challenges. Alanna O’Donnell is more than just a teacher; she is a beacon of hope and inspiration in her community.
